A bisphenol A sensor based on novel self-assembly of zinc phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid-functionalized graphene nanocomposites

•2-D ZnTsPc/f-GN architecture was synthesized by electrostatic self-assembly method.•ZnTsPc/f-GN nanocomposites avoided the reaggregation of ZnTsPc and f-GN themselves.•An electrochemical BPA sensor was developed based on ZnTsPc/f-GN nanocomposites.•High absorption for BPA and electron deficiency on the surface of ZnTsPc/f-GN•The proposed sensor could be applied for detection of BPA in real samples.

In this work, a novel zinc phthalocyanine tetrasulfonic acid (ZnTsPc)-functionalized graphene nanocomposites (f-GN) was synthesized by a simple and efficient electrostatic self-assembly method, where the positive charged GN decorated by (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (APTES) was self-assemblied with ZnTsPc, a two dimensional (2-D) molecules. It not only enhanced its stability for the hybrid structure, but also avoided the reaggregation of ZnTsPc or f-GN themselves. Based on layered ZnTsPc/f-GN nanocomposites modified glassy carbon electrode, a rapid and sensitive sensor was developed for the determination of bisphenol A (BPA). Under the optimal conditions, the oxidation peak current increased linearly with the concentration of BPA in the range of 5.0 × 10− 8 to 4.0 × 10− 6 M with correlation coefficient 0.998 and limits of detection 2.0 × 10− 8 M. Due to high absorption nature for BPA and electron deficiency on ZnTsPc/f-GN, it presented the unique electron pathway arising from π–π stackable interaction during redox process for detecting BPA. The sensor exhibited remarkable long-term stability, good anti-interference and excellent electrocatalytic activity towards BPA detection.

Graphical abstract2-D ZnTsPc/f-GN architecture with high BPA absorption efficiency and excellent catalysis of central metal in ZnTsPc was highly promising for BPA sensor.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide