Synthesis and assembly of ultrathin film of Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles at gas/liquid interface, its high electrocatalytical oxidation toward bio-thiols and selective determination of cysteine

A facile strategy was reported to synthesize and assemble a stable ultrathin film of Ni(OH) 2 nanoparticles at gas/liquid interface where the aqueous phase contained Ni 2+ and the organic phase was composed of triethylamine toluene solution. The ultrathin film of Ni(OH) 2 nanoparticles that precipitated at the interface was transferred onto the electrode surface for the electrocatalysis of bio-thiols and selective electroanalysis of cysteine. The preparation of Ni(OH) 2 ultrathin film and its transfer to an electrode substrate is very simple. The obtained Ni(OH) 2 ultrathin film modified electrodes are stable, showing high electrochemical oxidation toward bio-thiols and good selectivity toward cysteine in phosphate buffered solution of pH 7.5.