Layered platinum dichalcogenides (PtS₂, PtSe₂, PtTe₂) for non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor

Noble metal platinum is highly prestigious for its catalytic and electrocatalytic properties. Their compounds with chalcogens (S, Se, Te) are layered which may give an edge in terms of structure, in addition to composition. The bonding of platinum dichalcogenides (PtX₂) deviates from their extensively studied group 6 counterpart, MoS₂. Pt-X is covalent and a strong interlayer interaction exists between the chalcogenides, ensuing a dramatic layer and chalcogen dependence in their electronic properties. Recognising that layered platinum dichalcogenides has yet to be developed for electrochemical sensors, we herein delve into these compounds as we synthesise PtS₂, PtSe₂ and PtTe₂ by heating stoichiometric amounts of their respective elements. Extensive characterisation has been carried out to elucidate structural and chemical properties of the materials. Their electrochemical capabilities in enhancing signal transduction upon detection of H₂O₂ are compared where PtTe₂ performs outstandingly. Furthermore, electrochemical pre-treatment is employed to improve sensitivity. PtTe₂-based electrochemical sensor is optimised and developed to detect H₂O₂ with satisfactory analytical prerequisites of sensitivity and selectivity.