Electrocatalytic quantification of quinol in cosmetic samples using Co-doped graphitic carbon nitride @biomolecule assisted electrochemically reduced graphene nanosheets.

A bio-nanocomposite "Co-doped-g-CN@ biomolecule assisted electrochemically reduced graphene nanosheets (Co-g-CN@GN)" was prepared by electrochemical exfoliation of GO from graphite anode in the presence of amino acid 'l-cysteine' followed by its association with Co-g-CN The preparation of material has been confirmed by characterizations with FTIR, XRD, XPS and Raman spectroscopy. The morphology was investigated with TEM and SEM. Further, Co-g-CN@GN modified GC electrode was utilized for detecting and quantifying the 'Quinol' (a skin lightning agent) in cosmetic samples electrochemically. Quinol is a fundamental constituent utilized in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, oil refineries, textiles, and dyes. In the realm of cosmetics, it is utilized as a skin-lightning agent to inhibit the production of melanin in the skin. However, prolonged use of this component often results in allergic reactions among individuals. Furthermore, the effluents discharged from its manufacturing units pose a significant threat to the environment and human health due to its slow degradation. The detection limit was calculated to be 2.4 nM (S/N = 3).