Thermodynamics of interactions between lead(II) and cadmium(II) ions and azulene-based complexing polymer films

In order to understand the essential processes/interactions between the metal ions and modified electrodes which are based on complexing polymeric films, access to thermodynamic characteristics is compulsory. The paper enlarges the information concerning the sorption of metal ions within complexing polymer films, particularly based on azulene, which can be involved in metal detection sensors. Interactions between lead(II) or cadmium(II) ions and complexing polymer films have been studied using chemical preconcentration–anodic stripping method. The films have been obtained by controlled potential electrolysis in millimolar solutions of 4-azulen-1-yl-2,6-bis(2-thienyl)pyridine (L) in acetonitrile. PolyL films affinities towards these metal ions have been quantified at different temperatures by means of sorption isotherms. Parameters for sorption of lead(II) and cadmium(II) ions within polyL films have been calculated for Freundlich, Langmuir and Redlich–Peterson isotherms. The best fit was obtained when using Langmuir isotherm. The results evidence that lead ions are better sorbed than cadmium within polyL film. Thermodynamic parameters for the chemical sorption of lead(II) and cadmium(II) ions within polyL films have been calculated.