3D-printed metal electrodes for electrochemical detection of phenols

3D printed metal electrode modified by means of electroplating methodologies was tested and compared with conventional glassy carbon (GC) electrode for the individual and simultaneous electrochemical detection of phenol and p-aminophenol (p-AP) in aqueous solution via cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry. The 3D printed gold-plated electrode produced two distinct oxidation peaks for phenol and p-AP at lower anodic potentials as compared to GC electrode. It also showed improved analytical performance with higher sensitivity for p-AP detection. The fabricated electrode was stable at anodic potentials and the inherent electrochemistry of the electrode did not interfere with the electrochemical signals obtained. Thus, we have demonstrated a potential application of 3D printing technology for detection of phenolic compounds in environmental samples.