Nickel-Enriched Biochar from Marine Microalgae Advances Enzyme-Free Hydrogen Peroxide Sensors
Researchers have developed a biochar derived from nickel-enriched marine microalgae, Picochlorum eukaryotum, enabling enzyme-free electrochemical sensing for hydrogen peroxide. This new sensor, utilizing nickel nanoparticles within a stable carbon matrix, offers rapid, sensitive detection with improved durability. It operates effectively under various conditions, surpassing traditional enzyme-based sensors in performance and stability. The study highlights the potential for sustainable sensor fabrication using biological resources, paving the way for versatile applications in diagnostics and environmental monitoring.

A new biochar material derived from nickel-enriched marine microalgae, Picochlorum eukaryotum, has been developed to enable enzyme-free electrochemical sensing for hydrogen peroxide. The process involves cultivating the algae in nickel-supplemented media and pyrolyzing the biomass to create a porous carbon structure embedded with nickel nanoparticles.
This sensor achieves a detection limit of 0.39 micromolar and a response time of two seconds. It outperforms traditional enzyme-based sensors by eliminating degradation concerns and maintaining operational reliability across different matrices, including seawater and fruit juice. The research offers a sustainable approach to sensor material synthesis and highlights the versatility of biologically enriched biochar for future applications in various fields.




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