Preparation and characterization of reusable Sonogel-Carbon electrodes containing carbon black: Application as amperometric sensors for determination of cathecol

A novel strategy for the preparation of reusable carbon electrode containing carbon black (CB) has been developed. CB has been introduced as the conductive and sensitive component, together with graphite, in the composite electrode material of Sonogel-Carbon (SNGC) electrodes, obtaining SNGC-CB electrodes. A complete characterization of the electrodes has been performed using scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy. The overall procedure for the preparation of the electrodes is very fast, cost effective, simple and characterized by high reproducibility, leading to RSD = 2.4%. The presence of CB nanostructures in the formulation leads to improved performances in the detection of small phenolic molecules, such as dihydroxybenzenes with respect to pristine SNGC electrodes. In particular, the device allows the electrochemical determination of catechol with high sensitivity and low limit of detection, even in the presence of one of its isomers, namely hydroquinone. Measurements performed in water samples has led to good apparent recovery. •A novel carbon black–sonogel carbon based electrode with renewable surface has been developed and characterized.•The presence of carbon black assures enhanced features in the electrochemical detection of catechol.•High sensitivity and low detection limit are obtained for catechol detection even in the presence of hydroquinone.•Direct electrodetermination of catechol in water samples is reported.