Sonoelectrochemically enhanced electrocatalytic processes: The Pb(IV) catalyzed cleavage of 1,2-cis-cyclopentanediol at graphite and glassy carbon electrodes

In this study, the electrocatalytic (EC'-type) carbon-carbon bond cleavage of cis-1,2-cycropentanediol by Pb(IV) benzoate generated in situ is shown t o be possible under extremely fast mass transport conditions. Based on the comparison of data obtained experimentally and by the numerical simulation of sonoelectrochemical limiting currents with commercially available softwa re (Digisim 2.0), excellent agreement with the theoretical model of a plana r diffusion layer can be achieved and allows the straightforward prediction and optimization of sonoelectrochemical processes involving homogeneously coupled chemical steps. The ultrasonic cleaning of the electrode surface st rongly affects the Pb deposition process at glassy carbon and basal plane p yrolytic graphite electrodes, but is not efficient enough to prevent electr ode fouling which accompanies the anodic process at positive potentials. Th e overall rate and efficiency of the electrochemical process is enhanced du e to fast mass transport in the presence of ultrasound.