OXIDATION OF GLUCOSE AT ELECTRODEPOSITED PLATINUM-ELECTRODES

The oxidation of glucose at low concentrations was studied at electrodeposited platinum electrodes in 0.1 M HClO4 using an electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM). Experiments were performed over the whole potential range and then over selected regions of potential to investigate the processes giving rise to specific features in the cyclic voltammetry and mass response. In the region of potential where adsorbed hydrogen is present, EQCM experiments reveal the presence of adsorbate derived from glucose through the removal of features associated with the presence of adsorbed anions in the background electrolyte. Cycling over this potential region leads to a decrease in the mass of the electrode as the coverage of poisoning species increases. In the double-layer region of potential an increase in mass is seen as the adsorbate is oxidized and removed from the electrode surface, and is suggested to be a result of the replacement of adsorbed residues (formed from progressive oxidation of glucose) by both anions and fresh reactant. Restriction of the electrode potential to values above 0.2 V (SCE) prevents poison formation and mass responses indicate the presence of adsorbed glucose between 0.2 V and 0.6 V. Mass responses accompanying voltammetry and injection experiments also indicate that glucose or species derived from it can adsorb on an oxidized platinum surface.