Voltammetric studies of an oxazolone derivative of cefaclor in aqueous buffers

Abstract

Electrochemical properties of cefaclor at a mercury electrode in aqueous solution of varying pH have been studied through tast, pulse (normal and differential), and cyclic voltammetric techniques. For this, the electroinactive cefaclor is transformed into electroactive penicillenate analogue 'oxazolone derivative' under strong acidic hydrolysis condition. The derived oxazolone system underwent two-steps irreversible reductions involving proton-participations (2e-, H+; 4e-, 4H+) when voltammograms scanned cathodically. However, in cyclic voltammetry, a typical wave due to sulphhydryl group oxidation is noticed on scan reversal in anodic direction. The results have been discussed by taking into account the implications of reactant and product adsorptions onto electrode surface during the course of reductions.