ELECTROCHEMICAL METHODS Fundamentals and Applications - Allen.J.Bard

vi • Preface
This structure is generally that of the 1980 edition, but important additions have been
made to cover new topics or subjects that have evolved extensively. Among them are applications
of ultramicroelectrodes, phenomena at well-defined surfaces, modified electrodes,
modern electron-transfer theory, scanning probe methods, LCEC, impedance
spectrometry, modern forms of pulse voltammetry, and various aspects of spectroelectrochemistry.
Chapter 5 in the first edition ("Controlled Potential Microelectrode Techniques—Potential
Step Methods") has been divided into the new Chapter 5 ("Basic
Potential Step Methods") and the new Chapter 7 ("Polarography and Pulse Voltammetry").
Chapter 12 in the original edition ("Double Layer Structure and Adsorbed Intermediates
in Electrode Processes") has become two chapters in the new edition: Chapter 12
("Double-Layer Structure and Adsorption") and Chapter 13 ("Electroactive Layers and
Modified Electrodes"). Whereas the original edition covered in a single chapter experiments
in which other characterization methods are coupled to electrochemical systems
(Chapter 14, "Spectrometric and Photochemical Experiments"), this edition features a
wholly new chapter on "Scanning Probe Techniques" (Chapter 16), plus separate chapters
on "Spectroelectrochemistry and Other Coupled Characterization Methods" (Chapter 17)
and "Photoelectrochemistry and Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence" (Chapter 18). The
remaining chapters and appendices of the new edition directly correspond with counterparts
in the old, although in most there are quite significant revisions.
The mathematical notation is uniform throughout the book and there is minimal duplication
of symbols. The List of Major Symbols and the List of Abbreviations offer definitions,
units, and section references. Usually we have adhered to the recommendations of
the IUPAC Commission on Electrochemistry [R. Parsons et al., Pure Appl. С hem., 37,
503 (1974)]. Exceptions have been made where customary usage or clarity of notation
seemed compelling.
Of necessity, compromises have been made between depth, breadth of coverage, and
reasonable size. "Classical" topics in electrochemistry, including many aspects of thermodynamics
of cells, conductance, and potentiometry are not covered here. Similarly, we
have not been able to accommodate discussions of many techniques that are useful but not
widely practiced. The details of laboratory procedures, such as the design of cells, the
construction of electrodes, and the purification of materials, are beyond our scope. In this
edition, we have deleted some topics and have shortened the treatment of others. Often,
we have achieved these changes by making reference to the corresponding passages in the
first edition, so that interested readers can still gain access to a deleted or attenuated topic.
As with the first edition, we owe thanks to many others who have helped with this
project. We are especially grateful to Rose McCord and Susan Faulkner for their conscientious
assistance with myriad details of preparation and production. Valuable comments
have been provided by S. Amemiya, F. C. Anson, D. A. Buttry, R. M. Crooks, P. He,
W. R. Heineman, R. A. Marcus, A. C. Michael, R. W. Murray, A. J. Nozik, R. A. Osteryoung,
J.-M. Saveant, W. Schmickler, M. P. Soriaga, M. J. Weaver, H. S. White, R. M.
Wightman, and C. G. Zoski. We thank them and our many other colleagues throughout
the electrochemical community, who have taught us patiently over the years. Yet again,
we also thank our families for affording us the time and freedom required to undertake
such a large project.
Allen /. Bard
Larry R. Faulkner