Maleic hydrazide (MU) was successfully detected using a novel electrochemical sensor based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate)-carboxymethyl cellulose-single-walled carbon nanotubes modified glassy carbon electrode (PEDOT:PSS-CMC-SWCNT/GCE). A commercially available aqueous PEDOT:PSS dispersion with good processability and conductivity was used as electrode modified substrate material, while a water-soluble and adhesive CMC was selected as both binder and dopant to improve the long-term electrode stability in water of the PEDOT:PSS composite film and obtain synergistically enhanced electrocatalytic ability for analytes. A commercially available SWCNT dispersion with good processability, enhanced electrocatalytic ability and large rough surface area was selected as enhancer to improve the sensing performance of PEDOT:PSS composite electrode. The properties of the prepared composite film and its electrode were characterized and employed for the electrochemical detection of MU. The electrochemical behaviors of MH, optimum experimental parameters, and the performance of sensing electrode were investigated. The fabricated PEDOT:PSS-CMC-SWCNT/GCE accelerated electron transfer, enhanced synergistically electrocatalytic ability toward MU oxidation and displayed excellent sensing performance such as wide linear range (0.8-51 mu M) and a low limit of detection (0.1 mu M) and good sensing stability. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.