This study presents the fabrication and application of a graphene-assisted voltammetry platform for the sensitive detection of nitrate ions in PM2.5 (atmospheric aerosols with a maximum diameter of 2.5 μm). The MoS2/ reduced graphene oxide/ glassy carbon electrode ( MoS2/rGO/GCE) was prepared using a simple and efficient electrochemical deposition method. The rationale behind selecting MoS2/ rGO stems from their individual properties that, when combined, can enhance the electrode’s performance. MoS2 offers excellent electro-catalytic activity and selectivity for nitrate ion detection, while rGO provides high conductivity and a large surface area for enhanced sensitivity. The electrochemical performance of MoS2/ rGO/GCE was investigated and compared with MoS2/ GCE and bare GCE using cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that MoS2/ rGO/GCE exhibited enhanced electro-catalytic activity, high conductivity, and improved selectivity for nitrate ion detection. The optimal pH value for detecting nitrate ions was determined to be 8.0. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) was employed to investigate the linear range and detection limit of nitrate ions on MoS2/ rGO/GCE, resulting in a linear range from 1 to 300 μM and a detection limit of 0.35 μM. The reproducibility and the stability of MoS2/ rGO/GCE were assessed, showing satisfactory performance. Real sample analysis from Chengdu City showed a strong correlation between the results obtained using MoS2/ rGO/GCE and ion chromatography, highlighting its potential application in monitoring nitrate ions in PM2.5. The findings of this study contribute to the development of a graphene-assisted voltammetry platform for sensitive nitrate ion detection in PM2.5, offering potential benefits for real-time air pollution monitoring and environmental health assessments.

The current scale of the import trade of the US with China is significant and has the potential to be more in near future. However, patent-based disputes, especially in terms of Section 337 investigation, have also been increased in recent years. In the context of parallel development of national innovation strategies of China’s “Made in China 2025 Plan” and the American “Advanced Manufacturing Partnership,” along with the latest expanded “Information Technology Agreement” in the WTO trading system, the implications for optimally resolving patent-based disputes in the US import trade with China is highly significant for two countries. These disputes may even impact the world trade, since bilateral trade between China and the US accounts for a considerable proportion. Thus, both China and the US should take precautions and appropriate measures to guard against such potential frictions in order to attain mutually beneficial outcomes in resolving such disputes.