Sensitive Electrochemical Detection of Hydroquinone By Designing Chitosan-Silver Nanoparticle-Pluronic F-127 Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode

Purpose: Hydroquinone is a well-known tyrosinase inhibitor widely used in topical formulations for the treatment of hyperpigmentation and other skin disorders; however, its use is associated with adverse effects such as exogenous ochronosis, contact dermatitis, and photosensitivity. An attempt has been made for the detection of hydroquinone using a glassy carbon electrode modified with chitosan-functionalized silver nanoparticles and non-ionic surfactants.

Methodology: The present work involves the fabrication of a glassy carbon electrode modified with chitosan-functionalized silver nanoparticles and non-ionic surfactants. The modified electrode is characterized for surface morphology using field emission scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical behavior of hydroquinone is then investigated using linear sweep, cyclic, differential pulse, and square wave voltammetry. Calibration studies are performed to evaluate linearity, sensitivity, and detection limit over a defined concentration range. Finally, the developed electrode is applied to the determination of hydroquinone in pharmaceutical samples, and its reproducibility and stability are assessed.

Analysis/Results: The linear relationship between peak current and hydroquinone concentration in the range of 1–12 μM, along with a low detection limit of 0.039 μM, highlights the high sensitivity of the developed sensor. FESEM analysis further supports these findings by confirming uniform dispersion of silver nanoparticles within the chitosan matrix, contributing to enhanced active sites on the electrode surface. Application of the sensor to pharmaceutical (dermatological cream) samples yields satisfactory recovery values, demonstrating its practical applicability. Additionally, the good reproducibility and stability observed indicate that the developed electrode is reliable for routine analytical applications.

Originality/Value: The novel integration of chitosan-functionalized silver nanoparticles with non-ionic surfactants on a glassy carbon electrode to construct a highly sensitive electrochemical sensing interface for hydroquinone. Unlike conventional modified electrodes, this approach exploits the synergistic effects of biopolymer functionality, enhanced electron transfer from silver nanoparticles, and improved analytical accessibility provided by surfactants. The developed sensor thus offers a distinctive and effective platform for hydroquinone analysis with potential applications in pharmaceutical and environmental monitoring.

Type of paper: Experimental Research.