In this paper we report on the use of carboxylic acid functionalized single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) in the synthesis of 2,(3)-tetra-(4-oxo-benzamide)phthalocyaninato cobalt (II)-single walled carbon nanotube conjugates (CoTOBPc-SWCNT), their characterization and application in the electrocatalytic oxidation of amitrole. Cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used for the detection of amitrole on the modified glassy carbon electrode. The catalytic rate constant was 1.6 x 10(3) M-1 s(-1) and the apparent electron rate transfer constant was 1.5 x 10(-5) cm s(-1). The linear dynamic range was 1.0 x 10(-6)-3.0 x 10(-5) M, with a sensitivity of similar to 1.13 A mol(-1) Lcm(-2). (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.