Silver nanoparticles-based sensing platform for Fe3+ ions in complex matrices

Abstract

In this article we present two cost effective and simple sensors for measuring Fe3+ in complex matrices. One of them is an optical, and the other one an electrochemical sensor. Both of them are based on a redox reaction between the analyte and surface immobilised silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The resulting changes in the surface properties were monitored optically or electrochemically and the corresponding calibration lines were constructed. Limits of detection for the optical and electrochemical sensors were 25 and 16 μM respectively. The system was characterised using scanning electron microscopy, which confirmed the reaction between the Fe3+ ions and the nanoparticles.