Extraction of metallic cations by anodically formed poly-dibenzo-18-crown-6 from aqueous solutions. A key step in the formation of metal-polymer materials used as electrode modifiers for electrocatalysis

The insertion of metallic particles (Pd, Pt, Ir, Rh, Au or Ag) in conductive poly-crown-ether polymers such as poly-dibenzo-18-crown-6 (poly-DB18-C6, a polymer synthesized by anodic means) is described. The electrochemical behaviours of the metal-polymer materials are presented and the catalytic activity of the platinum-polymer is tested with regard to hydrogen evolution or formic acid oxidation in acidic solutions. Finally, an X-ray diffraction scattering study depicts the crystallographic patterns of the metal-polymer samples.