Palladium, rhodium and iridium were investigated as chemical modifiers following their electrodeposition on the graphite surface. Conditions for electrodeposition were optimized to find the best analytical performance. Cadmium was used as a test element in this study. Using modified tubes, maximum pyrolysis temperatures were 800 degrees C with Ir as modifier, 900 degrees C with Pd, 1000 degrees C with Pd + Ph, and 1100 degrees C with Ph alone. The modified tubes exhibit a long-term performance, which indicates an advantage in use of the electrodeposition of noble metals as permanent modification. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.