Analytical and Bioanalytical Electrochemistry

Analytical and Bioanalytical Electrochemistry

Electrochemically Grafted Azo Polymer Interface on Copper: A Robust Platform for Efficient Pb²⁺ Adsorption and Recovery

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Diyala, Iraq
2 College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Diyala, Iraq
Abstract
This study introduces a novel electrochemical strategy for fabricating a robust and selective adsorptive interface by covalently grafting an azo-functionalized polymer (AZO Polymer) onto a copper electrode via diazonium chemistry for efficient Pb²⁺ removal from aqueous solutions. The synthesized poly(acrylamide-co-o-cresol) was characterized by FTIR, ¹H NMR, and XPS, confirming the successful incorporation of azo (–N=N–) and amide (–CONH₂) functionalities. Electrochemical grafting yielded a uniform, porous polymeric layer, as evidenced by SEM and N₂ physisorption, which increased the surface area and provided abundant coordination sites. The adsorption kinetics, monitored by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM), revealed a rapid initial uptake, with Pb²⁺ removal efficiency reaching ~55% within 30 minutes and attaining a plateau of ~94% after 60 minutes (20 ppm, pH 7, 25°C). EIS analysis demonstrated a systematic increase in charge-transfer resistance (Rct) from ~820 Ω cm² to ~4650 Ω cm² over 60 minutes, correlating directly with Pb²⁺ accumulation. Remarkably, the electrode maintained >84% of its initial adsorption capacity after five consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles, demonstrating excellent reusability and interfacial stability. This work establishes electrochemically grafted AZO polymer layers as a durable, efficient, and regenerable platform for selective heavy metal remediation, merging covalent surface anchoring with tailored molecular affinity for sustainable water treatment.
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Volume 18, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
February 2026
Pages 31-51

  • Receive Date 04 December 2025
  • Revise Date 02 January 2026
  • Accept Date 11 January 2026