Quantum dots decorated polyaniline plastic nanocomposites as a novel amperometric sensor for formaldehyde: Experimental and theoretical approach

•Novel PANI@CuO NCs based amperometric sensor was developed for the pollutants.•CV, LRP, EIS, DPV, LSV and chronoamperometry techniques were used.•Stability, performance and reusability of sensor was checked for 720 h.•Experimental data was supported by theoretical (computational) study.•The sensor was proved to be fast, accurate, and reproducible. A fast, reliable, and reproducible sensor is required for the qualitative and quantitative detection of environmental pollutants. Quantum dots and conducting polymer can increase the sensitivity and efficiency of a sensor because of their unique properties. Novel CuO quantum dots decorated polyaniline (PANI) plastic nanocomposites-based amperometric sensor was specially designed and developed for the detection of formaldehyde as an environmental pollutant. The CV, polarization, impedance spectroscopy, chrono-amperometry, linear sweep voltammetry, and differential pulse voltammetry techniques were used for quick and accurate determination of pollutants. The nanocomposite was used in a specially designed working electrode used in the amperometric sensor. The theoretical parameters (Becke's parameter, Lee-Yang-Par correlation functional, and Fukui functions) were determined by DFT, Forcite, COMPASS, and DMol3 modules. A linear current-concentration response was observed with the square of the correlation coefficient, 0.997. A characteristic anodic peak at 0.051 V, EMID = −0.130 V, ΔEp = 0.310 V, cathodic peak (Epc) = −0.2 V, Ecθ = 0.330 V and a OCP of −370 mV confirms the presence of formaldehyde. The performance, storage, and reusability of the sensor were monitored for 720 h. The main advantage of the sensor is the immobilization of antibodies, DNA, or enzyme are not required. The developed sensor was proved to be fast, reliable, and non-specific for quantitative and qualitative determination of environmental pollutants. Quantum dots decorated polyaniline plastic nanocomposites as a novel amperometric sensor for the formaldehyde: Experimental and theoretical approach [Display omitted]