Ferrocene-based Electrochemical Sensors for Cations

This study investigates novel ferrocene-based electrochemical sensors for metal cation detection through the design, synthesis and characterisation of ferrocene derivatives. Specifically, the re-search determines the redox potentials of ferrocene versus decamethylferrocene to provide in-sight into the redox potential variations between them. The investigation also examines how electrochemical oxidation of the ferrocene moiety can modulate host affinity for transition metals cations via effects such as electrostatic interactions and changes to coordination chemistry. Metal ion coordination to receptors containing functional groups like imine and quinoline is explored to elucidate selectivity mechanisms. These findings advance the fundamental understanding of ferrocene electrochemistry and host-guest interactions, supporting the development of improved cation sensors with optimised recognition properties, sensitivity, and selectivity. Overall, the work lays the necessary groundwork for applications in analytical chemistry and sensor technologies through customised ferrocene-derived materials.