Title
Novel Electrode Materials for Electroanalytical Detection of Thallium in Environmental, Water and Wastewater Samples
Authors
[ 1 ] Instytut Chemii i Elektrochemii Technicznej, Wydział Technologii Chemicznej, Politechnika Poznańska | [ 2 ] Instytut Maszyn Roboczych i Pojazdów Samochodowych, Wydział Inżynierii Lądowej i Transportu, Politechnika Poznańska | [ P ] employee
Scientific discipline (Law 2.0)
[2.7] Civil engineering, geodesy and transport[7.6] Chemical sciences
Year of publication
2025
Chapter type
abstract
Publication language
english
Abstract
EN Thallium is one of the most environmentally hazardous heavy metals, known for its high toxicity and ability to bioaccumulate in aquatic ecosystems. Even at trace concentrations, it poses a serious threat to drinking water quality, aquatic life, and human health. Accurate monitoring of thallium in environmental, water, and wastewater samples is therefore essential for effective pollution control and regulatory compliance. However, its determination remains analytically challenging due to its low abundance and the complexity of natural matrices. This study addresses the need for safer and more sustainable electrochemical methods for thallium detection by developing and testing novel electrode materials. Glassy carbon electrodes modified with selected nanomaterials were investigated as mercury-free alternatives for voltammetric analysis. Mercury-based electrodes, although historically effective, are increasingly restricted due to their own environmental and health risks, creating an urgent demand for greener technologies. The developed electrodes were evaluated for their sensitivity, selectivity, linear response range, and detection limits in environmental samples, including surface water and treated wastewater. The nanomaterial-modified electrodes demonstrated high analytical performance, with strong thallium ion preconcentration and precise quantification at ultra-trace levels. Their robustness, non-toxicity, and ease of fabrication support their use in routine environmental monitoring. From an environmental perspective, the elimination of mercury in electrode materials significantly reduces the ecological footprint of trace metal analysis. The proposed sensors enable more sustainable assessment of thallium contamination in water systems, contributing to safer water management and the implementation of environmental protection policies. This research highlights the critical role of green electrochemical technologies in modern environmental analysis. By combining nanotechnology with voltammetric techniques, it offers practical tools for early detection of toxic metals and supports broader efforts to minimize the chemical burden of analytical practices.
Pages (from - to)
90 - 90
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