Ni(II)cyclam Catalyzed Reduction of CO2 – Towards a Voltammetric Sensor for the Gas Phase

The detection of CO₂ in the gas phase is possible in presence of oxygen with an amalgamated Au‐poly(tetrafluoroethylene) gas diffusion electrode and an internal electrolyte solution containing Ni(II)cyclam. For concentrations between 0.1 to 1% the electrochemical cell has a sensitivity of 3.58 mA %^?1 and the detection limit is 500 ppm. In preliminary experiments at rotating disk electrodes the optimum pH‐range was found to be between 3.5 to 6 and a selectivity ratio of the catalyst for CO₂/H⁺ of 5 : 1 could be determined. The relationship between reduction current and the square root of the angular speed is linear, indicating that the electrochemical process is limited by diffusion of CO₂. Tl and Pb are presented as alternative electrode materials at which the Ni(II)cyclam catalyzed reduction of CO₂ can be observed. Problems arise from fouling effects at the sensing electrode and a non‐linearity of the calibration plot at higher concentrations.