Simultaneous determination of the isomers of Ponceau 4R and Amaranth using an expanded graphite paste electrode

A sensitive and convenient electrochemical method was developed for the simultaneous determination of the isomers of Ponceau 4R and Amaranth by an expanded graphite paste electrode (EGPE). The EGPE was prepared by mixing EG with solid paraffin. Compared with flake graphite paste and carbon paste electrodes, the EGPE showed higher electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidization of Ponceau 4R and Amaranth. Under optimal experimental conditions, the EGPE exhibited wide linear responses to Ponceau 4R and Amaranth ranging from 6 × 10−8 to 4 × 10−6 mol/L and 8 × 10−8 to 4 × 10−6 mol/L, respectively, and the detection limits for Ponceau 4R and Amaranth were 2 and 36 nmol/L, respectively, at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. The EGPE showed good reproducibility, stability and reusability. The proposed method was successfully applied in the detection of Ponceau 4R and Amaranth in grape juice samples.