Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop an inexpensive, simple, and highly selective cork-modified carbon paste electrode for the determination of Pb(II) by differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) and square-wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Among the cork–graphite electrodes investigated, the one containing 70% w/w carbon showed the highest sensitivity for the determination of Pb(II) in aqueous solutions. Under SWASV conditions, its linear range and relative standard deviation are equal to 1–25 µM and 1.4%, respectively; the limit of detection complies with the value recommended by the World Health Organization. To optimize the operating conditions, the selectivity and accuracy of the analysis were further investigated by SWASV in acidic media. Finally, the electrode was successfully applied for the determination of Pb(II) in natural water samples, proving to be a sensitive electrochemical sensor that meets the stringent environmental control requirements.
Highlights
Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal that causes serious environmental problems due to its non-biodegradability
Several analytical methods are employed for lead detection, such as spectroscopy [6], optical colorimetry [7], inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) [8], atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) [9], and fluorescence spectrometry [10]
The raw cork (RAC) used in the experimental studies was provided by Corticeira Amorim S.G.P.S., S.A. (Portugal); the granules were washed twice with distilled water in cycles of 2 h at 60 ◦ C to remove impurities and other water-extractable components that could interfere with the electrochemical analysis
Summary
Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal that causes serious environmental problems due to its non-biodegradability. It is commonly released into the environment because of mining activities, natural processes, and the development of new technological devices [1,2], being frequently used by the automotive, plastics, paints, and ceramics industries for its corrosion resistance [3]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a Pb(II) concentration as low as 0.24 μmol L−1 can cause decreased intelligence in children, behavioral difficulties, and learning problems. For this reason, the concentration of lead in water and soils should always be below the WHO limit and, must be monitored. Several analytical methods are employed for lead detection, such as spectroscopy [6], optical colorimetry [7], inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) [8], atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) [9], and fluorescence spectrometry [10]
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