A high-performance nonenzymatic glucose sensor made of CuO–SWCNT nanocomposites

Nanocomposites of CuO and single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were synthesized using an arc-discharging graphite rod that contained copper wires. Simultaneous arc discharges produced a CuO–SWCNT composite network. The crystalline structure and morphology of the CuO–SWCNT composite films were investigated using XRD, Raman spectroscopy, FE-SEM and TEM. The electrochemical properties were investigated by cyclic voltammogram and amperometric measurements in a 0.1 M NaOH solution. The CuO content in the CuO–SWCNT nanocomposites was optimized for nonenzymatic glucose detection. The glucose sensing properties of the optimized CuO–SWCNT electrode showed good stability, selectivity, and linear glucose detection that ranged from 0.05 to 1800 μM with a higher sensitivity of 1610 μA cm−2 mM−1, a quick response time of 1–2 s, and the lowest limit of detection at 50 nM. The sensing performance was better than the pure CuO and SWCNT sensors, and the synergetic effect of the composite sensor was attributed to the high conductivity network of highly porous nanowires. The sensor also showed a good response in a human serum sample, which proves its high potential towards a commercial nonenzymatic glucose sensor.

► Fabrication of SWCNT–CuO nonenzymatic nanocomposites glucose sensor.
► Systematic characterization of sensor and the lowest detection limit of 0.05 μM.
► Synergetic sensing effect observed from the composite structure.