Surface Plasmon Resonance-Enhanced CdS/FTO Heterojunction for Cu²⁺ Detection

Abstract

Copper ion (Cu2+) pollution poses a serious threat to marine ecology and fisheries. However, the complexity of seawater and its interference factors make the online detection of Cu2+ quite challenging. To address this issue, we introduce the concept of the photo-assisted adjustment barrier effect into electrochemical detection, using it as a driving force to generate electrochemical responses. The Schottky barrier demonstrates a remarkable regulatory influence on the electrochemical response under photoexcitation, facilitating the response through Cu2+ adsorption. We developed a 4-MBA-AuNPs/CdS/FTO composite that serves as a sensitive platform for Cu2+ detection, achieving a detection limit of 70 nM. Notably, the photo-assisted adjustment of the barrier effect effectively counters the interference posed by ions in seawater, ensuring accurate detection. Furthermore, the sensor exhibits a promising recovery rate (99.62–104.9%) in real seawater samples, highlighting its practical applications. This innovative approach utilizing the photo-assisted adjustment barrier effect offers a promising path for developing electrochemical sensors that can withstand interference.

Keywords

• Cu²⁺
• heterojunction
• gold nanoparticles
• SPR
• thermoelectric effect