One-step process for ultrasensitive detection of mercuric ions using nanoparticle formation and single-entity electrochemistry

Abstract

Mercuric ions (Hg2+) are common heavy-metal ions that pose a significant threat to human health due to their high toxicity. The detection of excessive concentrations of Hg2+ is critical and requires highly sensitive electrochemical techniques. A novel electrochemical sensing technique was employed for the detection of Hg2+. This study emphasizes the use of single-entity electrochemistry (SEE) for the one-step synthesis and selective detection of nanoparticles in aqueous solutions. Importantly, this method does not require a catalyst or reducing agent for nanoparticle synthesis. The developed approach provides significant advantages over conventional techniques, such as increased sensitivity, improved selectivity, and the ability to detect low concentrations of 1 pM Hg2+ without modifying the electrode surface and the linear range for Hg2+ was obtained at 1 pM – 10 nM. This one-step synthesis and detection method is a reliable and promising tool for sensing trace heavy metals and studying the redox behavior of mercuric ions. © 2025 Elsevier B.V.