Catalytic wave of hydrogen in systems based on iron(II) nitrosyl complexes

The electroreduction of Fe(III) at a dropping mercury electrode in an acetate buffer solution containing NO2- and NH4+ ions and some hydroxy acids was studied. Based on the fact that the current depends on a number of factors, it was concluded that the wave observed was catalytic wave of hydrogen. The proposed mechanism of the process includes the electroreduction of the Fe(III) complex, the Formation of a mixed-ligand Fe(II) complex, and its protonation and reduction at a dropping mercury electrode with the liberation of hydrogen.