Development and characterization of flow systems for voltammetric analysis

Abstract

Flow-through systems are progressively becoming more important in all branches of analytical chemistry. The increased demand for analysis of more complex environmental samples has resulted in development of reliable, versatile and sensitive techniques. A combination of voltammetric analysis such as differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DP ASV) with flow systems satisfy all the above requirements. Although this combination has great potential, practically it has not been realised yet. This may be partly due to the use of traditional mercury electrodes which has many complications. In order to improve the use of this technique, a glassy carbon electrode (GC) which is more suitable to flow systems compared to mercury-based electrodes was studied. This study describes the electrochemical behaviour of chemicals on the GC electrode in flow systems. The use of a GC with flow systems as a means of detection proved to be very effective and can make electrochemistry more accessible to unskilled scientists. Having characterised and optimised all instrumental parameters of the system, practical evaluation of the technique as a trace metal analyser was explored. Future improvements necessary for optimum development of the technique are also mentioned.