The effect of ultrasonic waves on the oxidation current of chlorpromazine in the 38 and 96 kHz-ultrasonic vibrating electrode voltammetry

In the case of 38 and 96 kHz ultrasonic vibrating electrode (USVE) voltammetry of chlorpromazine, the oxidation current increased considerably with ultrasonic power (amplitude). Movement of the first oxidation product, crimson coloured cation radical, and the streaming of liquid in the neighbourhood of the USVE, were visually observed in order to understand the mechanism of the promotive effects of ultrasound on the oxidation reaction. The reaction profile of the oxidation of chlorpromazine in 38 kHz seems to be somewhat different from that in 96 kHz. However, the mechanical agitation of solution in the area nearest the electrode surface, which is essentially the same fundamental mechanism, takes place in both the cases of 38 and 96 kHz. Both micro- and macro-streamings due to the vibration of a small bubble on the electrode surface with a frequency lower than that of the ultrasonic wave were formed in 38 kHz. These streamings seemed to contribute to the agitation and the exchange of the solution near the electrode surface. However, at the same ultrasonic amplitude, the oxidation current at 96 kHz was much greater than that at 38 kHz. Such a promoting effect of ultrasound on the electrode reaction was considered to be due to the increase of the moving speed or to the acceleration of the particle in the solution.