Iron Single-Atom Catalysts Boost Photoelectrochemical Detection by Integrating Interfacial Oxygen Reduction and Enzyme-Mimicking Activity

The investigations on the generation, separation, and interfacial-redox-reaction processes of the photoinduced carriers are of paramount importance for realizing efficient photoelectrochemical (PEC) detection. However, the sluggish interfacial reactions of the photogenerated carriers, combined with the need for appropriate photoactive layers for sensing, remain challenges for the construction of advanced PEC platforms. Here, as a proof of concept, well-defined Fe single-atom catalysts (Fe SACs) were integrated on the surface of semiconductors, which amplified the PEC signals via boosting oxygen reduction reaction. Besides, Fe SACs were evidenced with efficient peroxidase-like activity, which depresses the PEC signals through the Fe SACs-mediated enzymatic precipitation reaction. Harnessing the oxygen reduction property and peroxidase-like activity of Fe SACs, a robust PEC sensing platform was successfully constructed for the sensitive detection of acetylcholinesterase activity and organophosphorus pesticides, providing guidelines for the employment of SACs for sensitive PEC analysis.

Automated summary

This study successfully constructed a robust PEC sensing platform by utilizing Fe single-atom catalysts on semiconductor surfaces, achieving sensitive detection of acetylcholinesterase activity and organophosphorus pesticides. This provides important guidelines for the use of SACs in sensitive PEC analysis.