The Use of Diamond Electrodes in the Interface Biodiesel/Water

A boron-doped diamond electrode was used at the interface of biodiesel and water in conjunction with square-wave voltammetry to promote the detection of a model molecule (ferrocene). The addition of LiClO4 to the oil phase increased the detection of ferrocene five-fold as compared with an unsupported oil phase. A cathodic surface pretreatment of the BDD electrode caused no oscillation of currents and promoted a high stability within the system. Our successful use of this system suggests the possibility for its application in the analysis of other contaminants within biodiesel including liposoluble pesticides and glycerol.