Intermediates in ring-disc electrode processes

In the history of electrode processes, intermediates are of extraordinary interest. In the lecture which follows, the most common types of intermediates in electrode processes are classified. Secondly, most of the methods which are available and have been used in finding intermediates are characterised. Thirdly, the principles of detection of intermediate and final products of electrode processes on the basis of kinetic information obtained by means of the rotating ring-disc electrode method are discussed. This approach is used for identification of the products of an organic electroreduction. In conclusion, it is demonstrated that the cathodic reduction of such organic compounds involves formation of stable and unstable intermediates.