A novel nonenzymatic sensor based on CuO nanoneedle/graphene/carbon nanofiber modified electrode for probing glucose in saliva

Here, we report on a novel nonenzymatic amperometric glucose sensor based on CuO nanoneedle/graphene/carbon nanofiber modified electrode. The results of the scanning electron microscopy indicate that electronic network was formed through their direct binding with the graphene/carbon nanofiber, which leads to larger active surface areas and faster electron transfer for the glucose sensor. High electrocatalytic activity toward the oxidation of glucose was observed with a rapid response (<2 s), a low detection limit (0.1 µM), a wide and useful linear range (1–5.3 mM) as well as good stability and repeatability. Moreover, the common interfering species, such as ascorbic acid, uric acid, dopamine and so forth did not cause obvious interference. The sensor can also be used for quantification of glucose concentration in real saliva samples. Therefore, this work has demonstrated a simple and effective sensing platform for nonenzymatic detection of glucose.