Multi-scan reversible cyclic voltammetry: is the ultimate condition approached and, if so, how fast?

Abstract

A previous article shows that, after an infinite number of cycles, reversible cyclic voltammetry will attain an ultimate state characterized by properties that were identified in that study. Here, reversible multi-scan cyclic voltammetry has been modelled with a view to assessing the circumstances under which the ultimate state is attainable in an experimentally realistic time. The prediction has been confirmed that, under very specific conditions, the ultimate condition is attained after only a few scans. Under less restrictive conditions, one property of ultimacy is developed rapidly, but others evolve more slowly, or not at all. Modelling shows that the multi-scan voltammetric current may be analyzed into several components, of which the ultimate current is the purely periodic component.