Electrodeposition of gold nanoparticles at a solid|ionic liquid|aqueous electrolyte three-phase junction

Gold nanoparticles have been electrodeposited on an electrode through electrogeneration at an ITO|AuCl₄^? solution in an ionic liquid|aqueous electrolyte three-phase junction. The electrodeposition was carried out by inverted double-pulse potential chronoamperometry. The direct reduction of AuCl₄^? ions at the electrode is followed by a counterion transfer through the liquid|liquid interface. Contrary to the electrodeposition from a single ionic liquid phase, scanning electron microscopy reveals that the shape of the resulting nanoparticles is highly angular and well-developed with a diameter of 110 ± 30 nm. Catalytic oxidation of glucose on the modified electrode is demonstrated.