A Graphene-Based Nanosensor For In Situ Monitoring Of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (Pahs)

A graphene-based nanosensor was developed for in situ monitoring of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in aqueous solutions. The sensor was fabricated using photolithography and etching of Au/Ti film on a silicon wafer followed by the transfer of a single graphene layer which was prepared separately by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The performance of the graphene nanosensor was characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The graphene-based sensor demonstrated a fast (\u3c10 sec) and linear response to toluene (0 to 17 ppm) at +400 mV versus Ag/AgCl when measured amperometrically. The novelty can be found in utilizing high affinity of graphene to PAHs and intermolecular electron delocalization at the interface of graphene and a benzene ring for toluene detection in water. The developed sensor is applicable to many contaminated water bodies or engineered systems due to its reduced sensing cost, portability, and ease of use