Hydrogen sulfide, along with carbon monoxide and nitric oxide, is a gaseous signaling molecule known as a gasotransmitter. These molecules all help to regulate ion channels within the body, however there is particular interest in selectively detecting H2S in vivo due to its physiological significance in the central nervous and cardiovascular systems. Unfortunately there is currently no method that allows for selective in vivo detection of H2S. Our group has previously developed cyanide-coordinated electropolymerized ferriprotoporphyrin ((CN)2-FePP) as an electrocatalytic material that can selectively oxidize H2S in the presence of NO and CO. When polymerized onto a Pt microelectrode surface, this material exhibited 100-1000x higher sensitivity towards H2S compared to CO and NO, respectively. However, the response towards H2S was not stable enough for practical applications, as the sensitivity towards H2S significantly decreased during the first several trials. The research presented here will present our initial efforts towards developing a miniaturized amperometric sensor incorporating (CN)2-FePP. First, a comparison between using Pt or C fiber as a suitable support material for the electrocatalyst will be presented. Electrochemical methods were used to ascertain which material was more preferential based on both their response to the gasotransmitters (in terms of sensitivity and stability) as well as their fouling susceptibility. Second, initial efforts towards miniaturization will be presented. This will involve discussing the logistics of its development as well as physical and electrochemical characterization of the working electrode.

Initial steps towards the development of a miniaturized amperometric sensor capable of selective H2S detection

2019 Spring National Meeting

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