Electrochemistry of water in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate at nickel electrode: application to hydrogen peroxide production and water sensing

The electrochemistry of water dissolved in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([C4mim][BF4]) was studied by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy using a nickel electrode. Hydrogen peroxide is being produced by direct electrolysis of water in a cooperative process between the nickel electrode and [C4mim][BF4]. There is linear response between the concentration of water and the oxidation peak current at 1.60 V. Impedance decreases significantly with increasing concentration of water. The findings resulted in two promising applications: The first is the production of hydrogen peroxide, and the second is in water sensing. Both methods are environmentally friendly and convenient.