Study on the polarographic catalytic wave of the system cobalt(II)-dimethylglyoxime

In the cobalt (II)-dimethylglyoxime-NH₃-NH₄Cl (pH 9) system, tne complex Co(II)A₂ exhibits a sensitive polarographic wave. The mechanism of this catalytic wave has been investigated by linear potential sweep voltammetry, cyclic voltammerty and anedic stripping voltammetry. The experimental evidences showed that a zero-valence “active cobalt” or its complex formed during the irreversible reduction of Co(II)A₂, which is adsorbed on the mercury electrode surface, and simultaneously DMG is catalytically reduced by this “active cobalt”. The mechanism of this system with the conflicting explanations of a catalytic hydrogen wave or only adsorptive complex wave is discussed.