Stabilizing redox polymer films by electrochemically induced crosslinking

Electrochemically induced crosslinking is suggested to stabilize electrodeposition polymer/enzyme films selectively on an electrode surface. 4 different protected diamine or dithiol based bi-functional crosslinkers have been synthesized, which can be activated by a pH-shift invoked by electrochemical water oxidation or proton reduction. Deprotection occurs either simultaneously or sequentially to the deposition of specifically designed redox electrodeposition polymers. The stability of the resulting polymer films was substantially enhanced as evaluated using continuous potentiodynamic cycling alternated by difference pulse voltammetry. Electrochemically induced crosslinking is compatible with biological recognition elements using Trametes hirsuta laccase or glucose oxidase entrapped within specifically adapted Os-complex modified or phenothiazine-modified redox polymers.