Phytate functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes modified electrode for determining trace Cu(II) using differential normal pulse anodic stripping voltammetry

A novel electrochemical sensor for determining Cu(II) was developed by modifying phytate functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes onto ITO electrode. The resulting electrode exhibited a high sensitivity and selectivity toward Cu(II) in the presence of Ni(II), Mg(II), Ca(II), Pb(II), Cd(II), Mn(II), Zn(II) and Fe(II, III) as well as in the presence of some anionic and organic species by differential normal pulse anodic stripping voltammetry. The linear calibration curve ranged from 0.010 to 0.800 μmol L−1 for Cu(II) with limit of detection (S/N = 3) of 2.50 × 10−9 mol L−1. This protocol was successfully applied for determining trace Cu(II) in river water.