Microelectrode Modification by Spark Discharge

The direct current electrical spark discharge between the two electrodes, one being the source of the amterial and the second a substrate (target) onto which the material is deposited is shown to be very effective method of eelctrode modification. The method is introduced for metal eelctrodes as amterial source and carbon fiber microelectrode. Soecifically, gold is deposited onto carbon fiber in he form of nanoparticles when the spark discharge occurs after bringing into close proximity the gold electrode connected to negative pole and carbon fiber microelectrode to the positive pole of the power supply, delivering 900 V. The utility of carbon fiber modified this way with gold for stripping voltammetry of arsenic is demonstrated.