Electrochemical methods for ascorbic acid determination

The present review focuses on electrochemical methods for ascorbic acid assessment. The occurence, role, biological importance of vitamin C, as well as the non-electrochemical methods for its assessment are firstly reviewed. The electrochemical behavior of ascorbic acid is then illustrated, followed by a description of the potentiometric, voltammetric and amperometric methods for vitamin C content estimation in various media. Different methods for the development of electrochemical sensors are reviewed, from unmodified electrodes to different composites incorporating carbon nanotubes, ionic liquids or various mediators. From this perspective, the interaction between the functional groups of the sensor's material and the analyte molecule is discussed, as it is essential for the analytical characteristics obtained. The analytical performances of the potentiometric, voltammetric or amperometric chemical and biochemical sensors (linear range of analytical response, sensitivity, precision, stability, response time etc) are highlightened. The numerous applications of ascorbic acid electrochemical sensors in fields like food, pharmaceutical or clinical analysis, where vitamin C represents a key analyte, are also presented.