Electrochemical reduction of 2,3′-dinitrobenzidine in buffered aqueous methanol

2,2′-dinitrobenzidine (2,3′-DNB) gives a single diffusion-limited irreversible polarographic wave in buffered aqueous methanol. Microcoulometric experiments indicate a transfer of ten electrons in the reduction and cyclic voltammetric studies show direct proof for the existence of a nitroso intermediate. Based on the results obtained, a suitable mechanism is proposed for the reduction of 2,3′-DNB in buffered methanolic solutions. © 1989 Chapman and Hall Ltd.