Determination of ultratrace lead with bismuth film electrodes based on magneto-voltammetry

A novel method for the determination of Pb²⁺ with bismuth film electrodes (BFEs) based on magneto-voltammetry was investigated. In the presence of a 0.6?T external magnetic field, square wave voltammetry of Pb²⁺ was performed with BFEs. A high concentration of Fe³⁺ was added to the analytes to generate a large cathodic current during the preconcentration step. A Lorentz force from the flux of net current through the magnetic field resulted in convection. Then, more Pb²⁺ deposited onto the electrode and larger stripping peak currents were observed. BFEs that were prepared by simultaneously depositing the bismuth and Pb²⁺ on an electrode offered a mercury-free environment for this determination. This method exhibits a high sensitivity of 4.61?µA?µM^?1 for Pb²⁺ over the 1?×?10^?8 to 1?×?10^?6?M range. A detection limit as low as 8.5?×?10^?10?M was obtained with only 1-min preconcentration. The method was successfully applied to determine Pb²⁺ in real water samples.