Reagent delivery systems based on soluble polymers capable of implementing sequential chemical reactions for spectroscopic chemical sensors and dry reagent devices

Abstract

Polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) is shown to be a promising polymer for the incorporation of reagents in layers or thin films. These latter can be used as reagent delivery systems for chemical sensors and dry reagent devices. The solubility and ease of use of different PVP grades are discussed along with some chemical effects of dissolved PVP. The rate of dissolution of polymer films and layers is investigated and the use of foaming agents demonstrated as an effective method of speeding dissolution. The transmittance of PVP solutions is examined and appropriate mixtures suggested for making layers for use in spectroscopic determinations. It is shown that by depositing several layers of PVP containing differing reagents a scheme of sequential reactions can be effected. The system is applied to the determination of aluminium by the Alizarin Red S method.