Graphene-CdS quantum dots (QDs) hybrid materials were successfully prepared via one-step hydrothermal method. CdS QDs with average size of similar to 6 nm were dispersed on graphene sheets with high coverage through non-covalent bonding. Photocurrent and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results suggested that the best dosage of graphene oxide for graphene-CdS hybrid materials is 0.5% (G0.5-CdS). When G0.5-CdS QDs was used as photoanode materials in non-enzymatic sensor, and the sensor was used to detect glucose and displayed satisfactory analytical performance with good linear range from 0.1 similar to 4 mmol dm(-3) with a detection limit of 7 mu mol dm(-3) at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3. The sensor also possessed high selectivity and durability in trace detection of glucose. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.