Selenocystine modified screen-printed carbon electrode as an alternative sensor for the voltammetric determination of metal ions

Abstract

Heavy metals are present in the environment from both natural and anthropogenic sources. Their bioaccumulation and persistence constitutes a serious threat to human health, demanding suitable methods for heavy metal monitoring. In this sense, anodic stripping voltammetry is especially appropriate for measuring trace metals. Conventionally, stripping techniques were connected to the use of mercury-based electrodes. Nevertheless, concerns about mercury toxicity have led to focus on the development of more environmentally friendly alternatives such as chemically modified electrodes (CME). The commercial availability of screen-printed electrodes (SPE) has largely expanded the field of application of modified electrodes as substitutes for mercury.