Synthesis and Characterization of New Schiff Base Complex of Cadmium (II) Nanostructure: Assessing its Capability as a Cadmium Sensor with Low Detection Limits Using QCM-Based Sensing Method

Ahmed, Mohammed Mahmoud; Hilal, Rifaat H; El-Sherif, Ahmed Abdo

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2024.278784.9507

Synthesis and Characterization of New Schiff Base Complex of Cadmium (II) Nanostructure: Assessing its Capability as a Cadmium Sensor with Low Detection Limits Using QCM-Based Sensing Method

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Cairo university

² Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University

10.21608/ejchem.2024.278784.9507

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) is identified as a hazardous heavy metal with the potential to impart substantial environmental and health hazards to water and soil ecosystems. Predominant origins of cadmium contamination encompass industrial processes, mining operations, smelting activities, and applying specific fertilizers and pesticides. Regular surveillance of cadmium (Cd) concentrations in the ecosystem is imperative to alleviate potential adverse effects and minimize human exposure. Nanotechnology is emerging as a pivotal factor in devising inventive and efficient remedies for an extensive array of environmental issues. This groundbreaking methodology has created an inventive nanoscale Copper sensor specifically engineered to identify cadmium. The Nano copper Schiff base complex underwent comprehensive characterization employing various advanced analytical techniques. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta potential analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), and BET surface area and pore size determination were instrumental in providing a thorough understanding of the complex's structural and physicochemical properties. The recently developed nanostructured copper (II) Schiff base complex was subjected to sensitivity assessment concerning heavy metal cadmium using the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) technique. This method was chosen for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and heightened sensitivity. The evaluation encompassed varying cadmium (II) concentrations, different pH levels, and diverse cadmium (II) solution temperatures. The evaluation of the cytotoxic impacts of nanoparticles derived from the copper (II) complex of the Schiff base was undertaken. This approach demonstrates practical suitability for discerning Cd (II) ions in groundwater and industrial effluent wastewater samples, showcasing remarkable sensitivity by detecting cadmium ions at a response time of less than 2 minutes.

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