Platinum-palladium loaded polypyrrole film electrodes for the electrooxidation of D-glucose in neutral media

Modified polymer films with metal particles incorporated into the films by electrodeposition are known as possible electrocatalysts for various electrode reactions such as fuel cell applications. This work presents some results concerning the electrooxidation of D-glucose at modified polymer film electrodes prepared on a platinum substrate. This reaction has a great deal of interest in view of its applications to detection systems (glucose sensor), fuel cells (pacemakers) and electroorganic systhesis. The modified polymer film electrodes contain platinum and/or palladium particles dispersed in the polypyrrole film by electrodeposition in neutral media. Addition of palladium to platinum modifies the electrocatalytic behaviour of the electrode drastically. The modification is thought to involve minimization of the poisoning of the catalyst, hence increasing its electrode activity.