MERCURY-COATED CARBON-FOAM COMPOSITE ELECTRODES FOR STRIPPING ANALYSIS OF TRACE-METALS

The advantages and characteristics of mercury-coated carbon-foam composite electrodes for stripping analysis of trace metals are described. The enhanced perimeter-to-area ratios characterizing these composite surfaces offer high preconcentration efficiencies from quiescent solutions. Additional advantages accrue from the lower oxygen-reduction and mercury-oxidation background-current components. Scanning-tunneling and scanning electron microscopies offer valuable insights into the unique microstructure of the mercury film and substrate. Exploratory experiments have shown the dependence of the stripping response upon numerous experimental variables. Convenient quantitation of lead in drinking water is accomplished with quiescent solution and short deposition period. Since neither stirring nor deoxygenation is required, composite-based stripping electrodes should be valuable for field and remote operations.