The role of emerging photoactive nanostructures in electrochemical sensor construction: Synthesis, properties, challenges, and perspectives

Abstract

Functional characteristics with high photoactive and electroactive properties have been emerging as the subject of advanced analytical applications. Recently, significant research has been augmenting the development of photoactive nanomaterials that can be utilized for both qualitative and quantitative determination of analytes for environmental, food, and healthcare applications. This review focuses on recent advancements in photoactive nanostructures for photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing applications, emphasizing their preparation, functionalization, and electrode construction strategies. Key developments include the rational design of photoactive materials with enhanced photoelectrochemical performances and signal-amplification techniques for improved sensitivity and selectivity. The review highlights the application of PEC sensors for detecting various analytes, such as insecticides, antibiotics, pathogens, carcinogenic compounds, and metabolic disorder markers in environmental, food, and healthcare settings. Current challenges, including material stability, selectivity, and real-world applicability, are critically discussed, along with future research directions for designing next-generation PEC sensors with superior functional properties.