The determination of traces of thiocyanate and copper(II) ions by cathodic stripping voltammetry

Cathodic stripping methods are described for the determination of traces of thiocyanate ions down to 2 × 10^-8 mol l^-1 and Cu(II) ions down to 1 × 10^-8 mol l^-1. The method involves electrolytic accumulation of copper(I) thiocyanate on the surface of a hanging mercury drop electrode followed by stripping of the deposit during the cathodic scan. For the determination of thiocyanate, a copper amalgam electrode can be used. Examples of application of the method for the determination of traces of thiocyanate in common salts, in saliva and urine as well as for the determination of copper(II) ions in tap water are described.