# Simultaneous Multi-Ion Heavy Metal Sensing Using Pulse and Stripping Voltammetry at Functionalized Nanomaterial-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes

## TL;DR

This review discusses how glassy carbon electrodes modified with nanomaterials can detect multiple heavy metals at once, offering a promising approach for environmental and health monitoring.

## Contribution

The paper reviews recent advancements in using nanomaterial-modified glassy carbon electrodes for simultaneous multi-ion heavy metal detection.

## Key findings

- Nanomaterial-modified glassy carbon electrodes offer enhanced sensitivity and selectivity for heavy metal detection.
- Quantum chemical methods have improved understanding of the electrochemical processes involved in multi-ion sensing.
- Current challenges include electrode fouling and matrix interference, which need to be addressed for real-world applications.

## Abstract

Glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) have gained increased attention for the sensitive electrochemical detection of heavy metals due to their excellent chemical stability, wide potential window, and good electrical conductivity. These characteristics make GCEs an effective platform for sensor development. In particular, nanomaterial-modified GCEs have emerged as a promising strategy, offering enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and faster response compared to conventional analytical techniques. This review summarizes recent advances over the past five years in the use of GCEs modified with chemically synthesized nanoparticles for the simultaneous detection of multiple heavy metal ions, including cadmium, lead, mercury, and chromium. It also includes how quantum chemical methods have aided our understanding of these phenomena. Heavy metals pose significant environmental and public health risks, with well-documented neurological, cardiovascular, reproductive, and carcinogenic effects, highlighting the need for accurate and rapid monitoring methods. Regulatory limits established by organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Environmental Protection Agency further emphasize the demand for highly sensitive detection technologies. This review examines the fundamental properties of GCEs, common nanomaterial modification techniques, and their application in multi-ion detection systems. Key advantages such as cost-effectiveness, portability, and adaptability to diverse sample matrices are highlighted. Current challenges, including electrode fouling, selectivity, and matrix interference, are also addressed, along with future perspectives for improving GCE-based sensors for real-world environmental monitoring.