Electrochemical measurements of uranyl ions in real nuclear wastewater using nanogold-modified electrodes

The determination of uranium content is of paramount importance, extending beyond energy security and environmental protection to encompass critical roles in nuclear non-proliferation and human health preservation. In this study, a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) was modified with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to enhance its electrochemical performance for the detection of uranium in aqueous solutions using differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry (DPASV). The incorporation of AuNPs significantly improved the electron transfer efficiency of the GCE, thereby enhancing its sensitivity for uranium detection. The effects of key parameters, including the addition of AuNPs, Nafion coating, deposition potential, deposition time, and solution pH, were systematically investigated to optimize the detection conditions. Under optimal conditions, the sensor achieved a remarkable detection limit of 0.105 mu g/L and a linear detection range of 2-10 mu g/L. The fabricated electrode demonstrates a novel and efficient approach for the rapid detection of uranium in aqueous environments. To validate its practical applicability, the sensor was tested using real nuclear wastewater samples, and the results showed excellent agreement with those obtained by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and UV-vis spectrophotometry, confirming the reliability and accuracy of the proposed method.