Electrocatalytic oxidation of formaldehyde on palladium nanoparticles electrodeposited on carbon ionic liquid composite electrode

The electrocatalytic oxidation of formaldehyde on palladium nanoparticles electrodeposited on carbon ionic liquid electrode (Pd–CILE) has been investigated. The ionic liquid, octylpyridinum hexafluorophosphate ([C8Py+]PF6-) was incorporated in the electrode as the binder. The general electrochemical behavior was characterized by cyclic voltammetry in alkaline media. The results show that the Pd–CILE system exhibits a significant electrocatalytic activity towards oxidation of formaldehyde. An oxidation peak was obtained at a potential of ∼0.03 V vs. Ag/AgCl for 0.010 M formaldehyde. The interesting feature of this electrode is that its catalytic efficiency as well as its anti poisoning property are far superior compared to many of the previously reported formaldehyde sensors.