Bimetal–organic-frameworks-derived yolk–shell-structured porous Co2P/ZnO@PC/CNTs hybrids for highly sensitive non-enzymatic detection of superoxide anion released from living cells

Abstract

We report a general approach for the synthesis of yolk–shell-structured porous dicobalt phosphide/zinc oxide@porous carbon polyhedral/carbon nanotube hybrids (Co₂P/ZnO@PC/CNTs) derived from bimetal–organic frameworks, and explore their potential utilization in the electrochemical sensing of superoxide anions. Beyond our expectation, the trace level of O₂˙⁻ released from living cells has also been successfully captured by our designed sensor. The presented strategy for the controlled design and synthesis of bimetal–organic frameworks-derived functional nanomaterials offers prospects of developing highly active electrocatalysts in non-enzyme sensors.