Analysis of organic compounds using an in situ plated lead film electrode.

For many years mercury electrodes were commonly used in stripping voltammetry for determination of organic compounds, owing to their high sensitivity, reproducibility and renewability. However, because of the toxicity of mercury, alternative (less toxic) electrode materials are searched. The review describes recent results regarding adsorptive stripping voltammetric determination of trace concentration of biologically active organic substances using an in situ plated lead film electrode (LFE). Such an electrode exhibits the distinct advantage of simple preparation, good reproducibility and electrochemical surface renewal. The article reviews the development, behaviour and application of a lead film electrode for stripping voltammetry of biologically active organic compounds.