Thin polymeric films of metal-dibenzotetraaza[14]annulene by electropolymerization of some γ,γ′-disubstituted complexes: Part 2. Copper complexes

Abstract

Modified electrodes containing the Cu-dibenzotetraaza[14]annulene redox centre have been prepared by electropolymerization of some new γ,γ′-disubstituted complexes. Films are obtained either by anodic polymerization of a compound disubstituted by benzoyl groups linked to a pyrrole group or by cathodic polymerization of complexes based on dibromo or dipyridinium derivatives. The electrochemical behaviour of these modified electrodes has been investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Voltammograms display the regular electroactivity of the Cu-dibenzotetraaza[14]annulene centre, except for polypyrrole films which present a splitting of the cathodic redox system corresponding to the reversible reduction of the metallic centre of the complex (Cu(II)⇄Cu(I)). These electrode materials can easily be demetallated by soaking in acidic solution. The possibilities offered by these materials for extracting metal cations have been examined.