Gold nanoparticle decorated rGO-encapsulated metal-organic framework composite sensor for the detection of dopamine

Abstract

In this study, by encapsulation of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) into Ni-based metal–organic framework (Ni-MOF) structure, the composite rGO@Ni-MOF was first prepared. Then, gold nanoparticle (AuNP) decorated rGO@Ni-MOF (rGO@Ni-MOF/AuNP) were obtained through the electrodeposition. The morphology and structure of rGO@Ni-MOF/AuNP were characterized by SEM, FTIR, and XRD. The rGO@Ni-MOF/AuNP modified electrode was used for the detection of dopamine. Combining the catalysis from Ni-MOF and AuNP with the conductivity of rGO endowed rGO@Ni-MOF/AuNP with synergetic high catalytic activity to the electrochemical oxidation of dopamine. The developed modified electrode had a good linear relationship with dopamine in the concentration range of 0.5∼120 μM, and the detection limit was 0.33 μM (S/N = 3). Additionally, the potential interferents, electrode stability, reproducibility, and practical applications were also studied and satisfactory results were obtained.