CyclicVoltammetry

Voltammetry in which the electric current is recorded as the electrode potential is varied with time cyclically between two potential limits, normally at a constant scan rate. Cyclic voltammetry is frequently used for the investigation of mechanisms of electrochemical/electrode reactions. The current-potential curve may be modelled to obtain reaction mechanisms and electrochemical parameters. Normally the initial potential is chosen where no electrode reaction occurs and the switching potential is greater (more positive for an oxidation or more negative for a reduction) than the peak potential of the analyte reaction. The initial potential is usually the negative or positive limit of the cycle but can have any value between the two limits, as can the initial scan direction. The limits of the potential are known as the switching potentials. The plot of current against potential is termed a cyclic voltammogram. Usually peak-shaped responses are obtained for scans in both directions.