A stannum–bismuth composite film electrode for simultaneous determination of zinc(ii) and cadmium(ii) using differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry

The development and use of ‘green’ electrode materials is extremely attractive for the routine use of disposable metal sensors. Bismuth is an environmentally-friendly element and a bismuth film electrode was proposed as an alternative to mercury film electrodes. Compared with bismuth, stannum is a more ‘environmentally friendly’ material. The stannum–bismuth composite film electrode prepared by the in situelectrodeposition of stannum and bismuth on the glassy carbon substrate is reported for the first time. Compared with bismuth film and stannum film electrodes, the stannum–bismuth composite film electrode revealed better electroanalytical performance, and can be used as a possible alternative electrode for electrochemical stripping analysis of trace heavy metals.