Co/MnO/N-PC/N-CNTs Derived from Co/Mn-ZIF Interpenetrating with PPy for Simultaneous Detection of Hydroquinone and Catechol

Abstract Bimetallic MOFs (Co/Mn-ZIF) were grown on pre-synthesized PPy carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and calcined at high temperature to obtain Co/MnO/N-PC/N-CNTs. The structures of nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and N2 adsorption-desorption experiments. A novel electrochemical sensor was prepared based on this material. Experimental results indicated the sensor exhibits efficient catalytic properties towards hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CC), facilitating their simultaneous detection. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the linear ranges of HQ and CC are 0.20-120.00 and 0.50-200.00 μM with the detection limits of 0.12 and 0.20 μM, respectively. The proposed method boasts a broader linear range and a lower limit, along with excellent selectivity and stability, enabling it to effectively detect HQ and CC concurrently in both tap water and lake water samples.