Electrocatalytic oxidation of selected parabens on zinc hydroxide nanoparticles

Zinc hydroxide nanoparticles have been used for electrocatalytic oxidation and determination of 21 parabens in aqueous solution. Zinc hydroxide nanostructures were characterized by X-ray, SEM and AFM. The kinetic parameters of 21 parabens and their chlorinated derivatives were investigated by means of cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry as well as steady state polarization. In addition, the results of the present study indicated that the differential pulse voltammetry test was more sensitive than the cyclic voltammetry test for the determination of the kinetic data of parabens.

► Zn(OH)2 showed excellent electrocatalytic activity toward oxidation of parabens.
► The kinetic parameters of 21 parabens were investigated by DPV.
► Zn(OH)2 were applied for selective determination of parabens.
► Electrochemical system will be applicable for analysis of PA in real samples.