Gold-based screen-printed sensor for detection of trace lead

The application of a novel gold-based screen-printed sensor to lead detection is described. The sensor consists of a screen-printed three electrode cell: a gold working electrode, a silver pseudo-reference electrode and a graphite counter electrode. It is used in combination with square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Sensor characterisation experiments as well as the optimisation of the analytical procedure are reported. The optimised parameters allow the detection of micrograms per litre of lead concentrations following short analysis time (detection limit 0.5 μg l−1 at 120 s deposition). Measurements of other metals such as copper, cadmium and mercury are reported.