Simple green routes for the customized preparation of sensitive carbon nanotubes/epoxy nanocomposite electrodes with functional metal nanoparticles

In this communication, we report novel, simple and effective methodologies for the incorporation of functional metal nanoparticles in carbon nanotubes/epoxy nanocomposite electrodes. The incorporation of nanoparticles was obtained by three different routes: (a) in situ functionalization of carbon nanotube surfaces, (b) incorporation and dispersion into a composite matrix and (c) composite surface modification by drop-attachment. These techniques offer a customized route for the preparation of sensitive amperometric sensors. Independent of the route of noble metal nanoparticle incorporation, the final result is a significant enhancement of the electroanalytical response.