Two-Dimensional Metallic NiSe(2) Nanoclusters–Based Low-Cost, Flexible, Amperometric Sensor for Detection of Neurological Drug Carbamazepine in Human Sweat Samples

Here we report a low-cost, flexible amperometric sensing platform for highly selective and sensitive detection of carbamazepine (CBZ) in human sweat samples. Detailed morphological characterization of the two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide NiSe(2), synthesized using one-step hydrothermal method, confirms the formation of dense NiSe(2) nanoclusters in the range of 500–650 nm, whereas X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies reveal a stable and pure cubic crystalline phase of NiSe(2). The sensor device is fabricated by uniformly depositing an optimized weight percentage of as-synthesized NiSe(2) onto flexible and biocompatible polyimide substrate using spin coating, and metal contacts are established using thermal evaporation technique. The sensor exhibits a remarkable sensitivity of 65.65 μA/nM over a wide linear range of 50 nM to 10 μM CBZ concentrations and a low limit of detection of 18.2 nM. The sensing mechanism and excellent response of NiSe(2) toward CBZ can be attributed to the highly conductive metallic NiSe(2), large electroactive surface area of its nanoclusters, and highly interactive Ni(2+)/Ni(3+) oxidation states. Furthermore, the presence of 10-fold excess of capable interferents, such as lactic acid, glucose, uric acid, and ascorbic acid, does not affect the accurate determination of CBZ, thus demonstrating excellent selectivity. The real-time detection of CBZ is evaluated in human sweat samples using standard addition method, which yields reliable results. Furthermore, the sensor shows excellent robustness when subject to bending cycles and fast response time of 2 s. The strategy outlined here is useful in developing sensing platforms at low potential without the use of enzymes or redox binders for applications in healthcare.