Communication—Electrochemical Sensor Concept for the Detection of Lead Contamination in Water Utilizing Lead Underpotential Deposition

Abstract

© The Author(s) 2018. A novel electrochemical sensor concept, which enables detection of ppb-levels of Pb2+in water, is outlined. The sensor works on the principle of underpotential deposition of Pb onto a Cu electrode followed by measurement of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) current on the Pbupd-modified electrode surface. The degree of suppression of the HER current is correlated to the Pbupd coverage, which in turn depends on the Pb2+concentration in solution. Feasibility of achieving a detection limit of 10 ppb Pb2+in aerated DI water and tap water is demonstrated and the sensing response time is analyzed using diffusion-reaction calculations.