Clioquinol
(CQ) is a mass-produced drug with broad-spectrum antifungal
and antibacterial properties. This neurodegenerative medicine has
attracted significant attention in the pharmaceutical field. However,
excessive administration of CQ presents neurotoxic effects that require
its early detection and effective countermeasures. Electrochemical
detection can be beneficial in this regard, using functional material
architectures with multiple advanced features. A unique emphasis is
placed on manipulating these hierarchical structures, for advanced
functions, offering an impressive perspective for monitoring systems.
In this paper, we report on the innovative synthesis of distinct structures
of AB2O4 (AB = Zn, Co, and Mn) spinel metal
oxide anchored sulfur-doped reduced graphene oxide (S-rGO) for the
effective detection of CQ. Fascinatingly, unique flower-like manganese
cobaltite (MCO) exhibits superior structural advantages over other
spinels, and doping of S-rGO into the framework marks a significant
improvement in electrochemical properties. The highly symmetrical
floral architecture with straight edges and facets provides defect-rich
active sites, and the dissolution of S-rGO facilitates faster electron
transfer and improved surface area. A wide linear response range,
low detection limit, excellent reproducibility, and stability show
that this material offers an efficient electrocatalyst that reinforces
the practical viability of S-rGO doped MCO spinel for analysis and
monitoring of real samples. The unique structural characteristics
of the synthesized electrocatalyst can further extend its functions
and applications, thereby expanding its potential capabilities.