Silicon-based ferrocenyl dendrimers as anion receptors in solution and immobilized onto electrode surfaces

Electrochemical investigations showed that a new silicon-based ferrocenyl d endrimer receptor, containing Si-NH groups, recognises and senses anionic g uest species via significant cathodic perturbations of the oxidation potent ial of the ferrocene couple. This dendrimer exhibits HSO4- and H2PO4- selec tive preferences. The presence of Si-NH groups in the dendrimer plays a sig nificant role in the electrochemical recognition of anions. Electrodes modi fied with this ferrocenyl dendrimer are also sensitive to the presence and concentration of anions. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved .