Voltammetric studies in “wet” 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ionic liquid using electrodes with adhered microparticles

The voltammetry of adhered microparticles provides a convenient method to access “water free” reversible potentials for water sensitive reduction of benzophenone and 1,4-benzoquinone in “wet” 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([Bmpyrd][NTf2]) (water content ~ 0.13 M) ionic liquid. The outcome that reflects reversible potentials relevant to “dry” conditions is rationalized in terms of generation of high localized concentrations that significantly exceed the water concentration near the electrode surface.

Graphical abstractVoltammograms of dissolved and adhered microparticles of benzophenone in “wet” ionic liquid.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► “Water free” reversible potentials are accessible in “wet” ionic liquids. ► Voltammograms of adhered microparticles are less sensitive to adventitious water. ► Advantages of voltammetry of adhered microparticles in ionic liquids.