Surface modification in electroanalysis: Past, present and future

Abstract

This review discusses the electrochemical sensors and biosensors based on carbon nanotubes, fullerenes, metal nanoparticles and ionic liquid/composite modified electrodes. Subsequently, recent developments and major strategies for enhancing sensing performance, the challenges and prospects of further developments in the future are debated. Besides a brief exposition of the properties of ionic liquids and their general applications based on these properties, this review focuses on the application of ionic liquids in electroanalytical sensors. Emphasis is given to direct electron-transfer reaction, origin of electrocatalysis effect of nanomaterials and use of these sensors to determine the level of biomolecules, drugs/doping agents in human body fluids. This review aims to expand on these aspects by covering the most recent trends and advances in the utilization of nanomaterials in electroanalytical techniques during the last decade or so.