Tunable oxidative release of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone-imine and acetamide from electrochemically derived sub-monolayer acetaminophen modified glassy carbon electrode

In the present work, a glassy carbon electrode was electrochemically modified with acetaminophen. The mechanism of this modification along with the electrochemical features of the film derived from acetaminophen were investigated. In addition to cyclic voltammetry, the modified surface was subjected to analysis by XPS and ellipsometry. As anticipated for quinone/hydroquinone like structures, both the electrochemical modification process and the electrochemical behavior of the acetaminophen derivatized electrode are strongly potential and pH dependent. It was demonstrated that the voltammetric release of N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone-imine (NAPQI) and/or acetamide can be controlled through the applied potential and pH. The release of acetamide occurs after electrochemical oxidation of the acetaminophen derivatized electrode at a relatively low over-potentials followed by a hydrolysis reaction in acidic solutions. In comparison, NAPQI is released upon applying higher potentials, independent of pH.

Automated summary

The electrochemical modification and behavior of the acetaminophen derivatized electrode are strongly influenced by potential and pH. The release of NAPQI and acetamide can be controlled through applied potential and pH.