Copper electrode based amperometric detector cell for sugar and organic acid measurements

Electrochemical behavior of sugars and organic acids at catalytic copper electrode was investigated in strongly alkaline media. Linear relationship was found for different analytes between concentration and voltammetric current wave or amperometric current. Electrode fouling was not observed neither in voltammetric nor in amperometric measurements. The number of electrons per molecule transferred during electrochemical oxidation was measured with controlled potential electrolysis and using the Koutecky–Levich function. The high number of electrons taking part in the electrode process and the stable operation of the electrode makes the catalytic copper electrode a well applicable sensor in FIA analysis and in chromatographic detection of different sugars and some organic acids. In the work a thin layer type detector cell was prepared and its function was studied.