Aspects of the optimization of poly(vinyl chloride) matrix membrane ion-selective electrodes

Abstract

PVC matrix membrane electrodes have been improved for dealing with an extended range of ions by the design of new electroactive components with appropriate plasticising solvent mediators. New approaches to calibrating the electrodes with ion buffers increases confidence in their use.

Ion permeation studies in membranes demonstrate ion-selectivity and form a basis for electrochemical response mechanism of PVC matrix membranes containing trapped liquid ion-exchangers and neutral carrier complexes, respectively.

Immobilization of active sites on the membrane matrix has led to only limited improvements in ISE design. Rather more successful is the use of alternative solvent mediators for overcoming sample matrix interferences, as in the case of samples containing anionic surfactants and certain biochemical components. PVC matrix membrane electrodes can be designed for dealing with various measuring situations, such as, small sample sizes, flowing samples and muscle fluids.