Reciprocal derivative constant-current stripping analysis

Reciprocal derivative constant-current stripping analysis (RD-CCSA) is based on the measurement of dt/dE converted from a derivative signal, dE/dt, vs. electrode potential (E) during the stripping of analyte under galvanostatic conditions from a mercury-film electrode after preconcentration. The potential transient signal (E-t) in normal chronopotentiometric stripping analysis (CPSA) is converted in RD-CCSA into a stripping peak (dT/dE)(p) the height of which is proportional to the bulk concentration of analyte in solution. The theory of RD-CCSA has been derived, and validated by the good correlation obtained between the theory and experimental data. Compared with normal CPSA, RD-CCSA is more sensitive and has higher resolution. The detection limit for cadmium is 6 x 10(-10)M. Simultaneous determination of Cd(2+), In(3+), and Tl(+) (for which the differences between the stripping peak potentials are 58 and 50 mV, respectively) which is impossible for normal CPSA, voltammetry or differential pulse polarography, has become possible with RD-CCSA.