A Novel Non-Enzymatic Sensor Prepared by ZnO Nanoneedle Arrays Template for High Performance of Glucose Sensing

Abstract We prepared a gold film covered with dense particles and honeycomb-like holes using a sacrificial template of ZnO nanoneedle arrays and integrated it into a non-enzymatic glucose sensor. The template was characterized by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This is an effective and novel method because the three-dimensional microstructure appeared on its surface when the zinc plate was heated directly. Moreover, separate steps were not required to modify the electrode. Due to a large specific surface area (Rf = 27.8) and more active sites, the gold film showed good electrochemical catalytic behavior. The surface morphology and elements of working electrode were characterized by SEM and energy dispersive spectroscopy. The sensor showed a wide linear range of 0.1-11.0 mM, a high sensitivity of 514.41 µAcm−2 mM-1, and a low detection limit of 2.31 µM. It also can distinguish small changes in glucose concentration (10 or 20 µM). Moreover, The sensor displayed good repeatability, stability and selectivity. Ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) had low interference when it detected glucose. A sensor with outstanding performance and easy preparation was manufactured and shows promising prospects.