Autocatalytic oxidation reaction of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is studied in the presence of different reagents. Electron transfer between silver atoms on the surface of AgNPs and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) can enhance the oxidation reaction and AgNPs gradually dissolve. UV-vis absorption spectra of the reaction system can reflect the process and the spectral responses can be applied in the fabrication of a nonenzymatic H2O2 sensor. Two linear detection ranges are obtained, which are rather wide. This nonenzymatic H2O2 sensor also have many advantages such as simple operation, low cost, fast response and excellent selectivity. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.