Gel-assisted synthesis of Ag nanoparticles: a novel hydrogen peroxide sensor based on Ag nanoparticles-carbon nanotube composite film

Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) catalyst has been synthesized by a simple and low-cost method using gelatin as organic precursor. Techniques of X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) were used to characterize the structure and properties of the Ag nanoparticles. Gelatin plays an important role in formation of the Ag nanoparticles. Moreover, glassy carbon electrode modified with Ag nanoparticles and multi wall carbon nanotube (AgNPs-MWNT/GCE) was prepared by casting of the AgNPs-MWNT solution on GCE. The sensor responded linearly to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the concentration of 6 to 900 μM with detection limit of 4.2 μM at 3σ using amperometry. Also, AgNPs-MWNT/GCE was used for H2O2 detection in real sample. The studied sensor exhibited good reproducibility and long-term stability. The produced nanosilver is stable and shows potential applications in the field of sensors, catalysis, fuel cells and nanodevices.