Analytical Applications of a Nanoparticle-Based Sensor for the Determination of Mercury

The applicability of a gold nanoparticle-modified glassy carbon sensor (AuNPs-GCS) for the determination of inorganic mercury in different matrices is demonstrated. Mercury content in some certified samples (Estuarine sediment BCR CRM 277, City waste incineration ash BCR CRM 176, Sea lettuce BCR CRM 279 and Tuna fish ISPRA T22) and in three real samples (drinking water, a plant, a pharmaceutical) has been determined. The analysis was performed by anodic stripping voltammetry using the optimized conditions (deposition potential 0 V, step potential 0.004 V, frequency 150 Hz, amplitude 0.003 V). For each sample the most suitable conditions to take account of matrix effects were identified and adopted.