Anatase TiO2 based photoelectrochemical sensor for the sensitive determination of dopamine under visible light irradiation

Abstract

Dopamine (DA), an important neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, is thought to control emotions and the balance of hormones in the human body. A photoelectrochemical sensor based on anatase TiO₂ nanoparticles was developed to detect DA under visible light irradiation. The TiO₂ nanoparticles were prepared by a previously reported hydrothermal method and the anatase phase was confirmed by X-ray diffraction. Under visible light irradiation, the electrode modified with TiO₂ nanoparticles showed a weak photocurrent response in the absence of DA; however, the photocurrent was significantly improved after DA was added to the electrolyte. The proposed photoelectrochemical sensor had a sensitive response to DA with excellent reproducibility, stability and a wide linear range. This sensor may have potential applications in the determination of DA in real samples.