Constant Potential Amperometry
What is Constant Potential Amperometry?
Constant potential amperometry is an electrochemical technique where a constant potential is applied to a sensor (working electrode) and the faradaic current is measured. This current is generated by the reduction or oxidation of a chemical substance the electrode surface.
In a three electrode system, a working, reference and auxiliary electrode are required. The working electrode is detecting the analyte of interest and is either cathodic if the reaction is reduction or anodic if the reaction is oxidation.
The constant potential is delivered using a potentiostat, a hardware unit which keeps the working electrode potential constant relative to a reference electrode by adjusting the current at an auxiliary (or counter) electrode.