Advancements in electrochemical sensors: nanotechnology-driven innovations for enhanced detection

Abstract Electrochemical (EC) sensors are pivotal for quantitative analysis as well as detection of the chemical and biological analytes across different fields, such as biomedical applications, food safety, and environmental monitoring etc. The present review discusses the electrochemical sensor of different types (potentiometric, impedimetric, amperometric) and their key mechanisms. The enhancement of sensors performance as well as efficiency has also been explored in detail. Integration of nanomaterials and nanocomposites offers improved selectivity, sensitivity, faster response time and facilitates the sensor miniaturization to the nanoscale. Specific applications, including the detection of (i) disease biomarkers, (ii) pesticides, (iii) pollutants, (iv) contaminants, (v) glucose and (vi) pesticide residues, are detailed. Present review further covers the limitations and the challenges of nanomaterials’ utilization in fabrication process of electrochemical sensors, including their (i) stability, (ii) biocompatibility, (iii) scalability and (iv) manufacturing related constraints. Future perspectives, encompassing advances in hybrid nanomaterials, nanocomposites, and the incorporation of AI and IoT, are also discussed. The present comprehensive review aims to be beneficial for all the researchers/scientists working in similar fields, guiding the development of electrochemical sensors with higher potential for novel applications.