<title>Microfabricated voltammetric sensors for trace metal analysis</title>

Abstract

In order to meet the stringent demands of natural and waste waters monitoring for artifact-free data, an increasing effort is directed towards developing on-line and in-situ measuring schemes. In this context, the development of microfabricated electrochemical detectors for stripping analysis of trace metals has attracted particular attention. In this paper we report on the fabrication and analytical performance of a microfabricated electrode for direct Square Wave Anodic Stripping Voltammetry analyses of trace metals in natural waters. It is based on a mercury-plated thin-film Ir microdisk array covered by a layer of an antifouling gel. To facilitate the control of the gel deposition and to improve its mechanical stability, a polymeric containment ring has been formed around the array. The sensor is then integrated within a complete Voltammetric In situ Profiling analytical system.