Development of non-enzymatic glucose sensor using recycled cobalt from cell phone Li-ion batteries

•Use of recycled cobalt from Li-ion batteries as glucose sensor.•Co obtained by electrodeposition from cathode lixiviation solution.•The sensitivity of cobalt electrode for glucose detection is 70.2 μA/mmol cm2.

This article aims to present an alternative to recycling of spent Li-ion batteries applied to electrochemical sensor manufacturing. The cobalt, from cathode of Li-ion batteries, was recovered by electrodeposition onto AISI 430 stainless steel substrate and applied as glucose sensor. The composition of cathode utilized was obtained by AAS measures and corresponds to LiNi0,40Co0,60O2. Despite this composition, in the cobalt electrodeposition onto AISI 430 stainless steel the Ni is less of 1.7% (w/w) due the anomalous electrodeposition. The sensitivity of cobalt electrode for glucose detection is 70.2 μA/mmol cm2 and the linear range is 1-10 mmol/L. This result shows that the Co electrodeposited onto AISI 430 stainless steel is a promissory and low-cost non-enzymatic glucose sensor.