Construction of Al (III) ion selective electrode based on BN@SnP composite and its real-life applications

Abstract

This study presents the fabrication and characterization of an Al(III) ion-selective electrode (ISE) using a novel BN@SnP composite. The composite, synthesized through a sol–gel process, integrates boron nitride (BN) nanoparticles into tin phosphate precipitates, exhibiting enhanced ion exchange capacity compared to individual inorganic counterparts. The resulting ion exchanger demonstrates selectivity towards Al (III) ions, forming the basis for constructing an ISE. The fabricated electrode exhibits a rapid response time of 10 s, a Nernstian slope of 22.05 mV decade⁻¹, and a wide linear range spanning from 1.0 × 10⁻⁷ to 1.0 × 10⁻¹ M. The electrode demonstrates a low limit of detection (LOD) of 7.5 × 10 ⁻⁸M, highlighting its high sensitivity. The composite’s selectivity for Al (III) ions is confirmed through distribution coefficient studies, showcasing its preference over various metal ions. The chosen membrane for the electrode, M-3, exhibits optimal characteristics, including ideal thickness, high water content, and porosity. Comparative analysis with reported electrodes underscores the competitive performance of the proposed electrode. This research introduces a proficient ISE for Al (III) detection and sets the stage for future explorations in composite materials and their applications in biomedical monitoring, such as tracking aluminium levels in biological fluids for early diagnosis and management of neurological disorders, and environmental monitoring and analytical chemistry.