Selective electrocatalysis of reduced graphene oxide towards hydrogen peroxide aiming oxidases-based biosensing: Caution while interpreting

Graphene is currently often reported as a superior electrochemical (and not only) material. Here we assess critically the often-reported electrocatalytic behaviour of an electrode modified with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) towards H2O2. Two different electrode materials - gold and glassy carbon - were modified with rGO and comparative measurements in the presence of H2O2 and two ordinary electrochemical interferents - ascorbic acid and dopamine - were performed. Neither selectivity nor significant electrocatalytic abilities of rGO modified electrodes were observed. Only the mass transfer was enhanced due to the improvement of the parameters applicable for general electrochemistry on nanoparticles - diffusion layer and electroactive area.