Development of a novel flow sensor for copper trace analysis by electrochemical reduction of 4-methoxybenzene diazonium salt

Due to the rapidity and the effectiveness of the method, the reduction of diazonium salts has been widely used to functionalize electrodes for sensor applications. However, the resulting organic film usually designed to provide complexing capabilities for the species to be determined could affect the sensor properties. The electrochemical reduction of 4methoxybenzene diazonium salt on graphite felt that leads to the formation of an organic film with unexpected high affinity for copper ions is presented. This property combined with a flow electrochemical system led us to achieve a sensitive sensor for copper detection, with good selectivity towards some common interferent ions.