Ionenselektiven

Ionenselektiven, also known as ion-selective electrodes, are specialized sensors used to measure the concentration of specific ions in a solution. These electrodes are designed to be highly selective for a particular ion, allowing for accurate and precise measurements in various applications. The principle behind ion-selective electrodes is based on the selective permeation of the target ion through a membrane, which creates a potential difference that can be measured and correlated to the ion concentration.

There are several types of ion-selective electrodes, each tailored for different ions. For example, pH electrodes are designed to measure hydrogen ion (H+) concentration, while specific ion electrodes can measure ions such as sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), or calcium (Ca2+). The membrane in these electrodes can be either glass, which is commonly used for pH measurement, or a plasticized polymer, which is used for other ions.

Ion-selective electrodes are widely used in analytical chemistry, environmental monitoring, and medical diagnostics. They offer several advantages, including high sensitivity, fast response times, and the ability to operate in a wide range of conditions. However, they also have limitations, such as drift over time and interference from other ions in the solution.

Calibration and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the accuracy of ion-selective electrodes. Regular calibration using standard solutions of known ion concentrations is necessary to compensate for any drift or changes in the electrode's response. Proper storage and handling are also important to prolong the lifespan of these sensors.