Selective and stable visible-light-prompted scavenger-free photoelectrochemical strategy based on a ternary ErVO4/P@g-C3N4/SnS2 nanocomposite for the detection of lead ions in different water samples.

Abstract

Lead ions (Pb²⁺) are heavy metal environmental pollutants that can significantly impact biological health. In this study, the synthesis of a ternary nanocomposite, ErVO₄/P@g-C₃N₄/SnS₂, was achieved using a combination of hydrothermal synthesis and mechanical grinding. The as-fabricated photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor was found to be an ideal substrate for Pb²⁺ detection with high sensitivity and reliability. The ErVO₄/P@g-C₃N₄/SnS₂/FTO was selected as the substrate because of its remarkable and reliable photocurrent response. The Pb²⁺ sensor exhibited a low detection limit of 0.1 pM and a broad linear range of 0.002-0.2 nM. Moreover, the sensor exhibited outstanding stability, selectivity, and reproducibility. In real-time applications, it exhibited stable recovery and a low relative standard deviation, ensuring reliable and accurate measurements. The as-prepared PEC sensor was highly stable for the detection of Pb²⁺ in different water samples. This promising characteristic highlights its significant potential for use in the detection of environmental pollutants.