Feasibility studies for the detection of volatile organic compounds in thegas phase using microelectrode sensors

The use of microelectrode sensors to detect volatile organic compounds (VOC s) in air is demonstrated. Ln general, VOCs that oxidize easily to form pro tons gave a larger electrochemical response. The use of voltammetry for spe ciation and the effect of electrode size on the electrochemical response ar e discussed. We demonstrate that surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) can be used to monitor the electrochemical reactions in situ and discuss i ts applicability in identifying the electroactive species. (C) 1999 Elsevie r Science S.A. All rights reserved.