Engineered Electrode Using Cross‐Linked Poly( o ‐phenylenediamine) for Synergistic Electrocatalytic Removal of Cu ^{2 +} : P

ABSTRACT

Electrocatalytic technology is an effective method for treating heavy metal pollution in water, and conductive polymers offer a cost‐effective alternative to precious metal catalysts. This study examines the electrocatalytic removal of Cu ^{2 +} using modified glassy carbon electrodes with cross‐linked poly( o ‐phenylenediamine) (M‐CR‐P o PD). Cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry and DFT calculation confirm the significant catalytic effect of M‐CR‐P o PD on Cu ^{2 +} removal. Electrochemical and XPS tests reveal a diffusion‐controlled, mixed mechanism with an electron transfer number near 2. The core mechanism involves M‐CR‐P o PD forming a modification layer that lowers the charge transfer barrier. Its nitrogen‐rich sites enhance the synergy between Cu ^{2 +} adsorption and electron transfer, catalyzing the two‐electron reduction process. Kinetic experiments indicate a first‐order reaction model, achieving an optimal Cu ^{2 +} removal rate of 85.69% at 35°C. This research advances the understanding of catalytic effect of conductive polymer‐based electrode modification material for heavy metal treatment in water.