Ion-selective Electrodes Based on PVC Membranes for Potentiometric Sensor Applications: A Review

Abstract

Ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) are potentiometric sensors used to measure some of the most critical analytes in environmental laboratory. Recently ion sensors are taking place of various analytical techniques, as they provide a convenient and fast method of electroanalysis. Ion-selective electrodes are simple, relatively inexpensive, robust, durable, and ideal to be used for the detection of heavy metal ions. Important characterisctics of ISEs are selectivity, response time, detection limit, working range, effect of pH etc. Lot of research work is being done for the formation of ISEs by using polymeric membrane incorporated with ionophores or electroactive material. Various types of Schiff bases, macromolecules and metal complexes may be used as ionophores along with plasticizer, ion-excluder for the membrane preparation. Ion-selective electrodes will be optimized for pH range, selectivity, sensitivity, working concentration range and lifetime before their use as sensor electrode for determining the concentration of ions in solution. Various researchers are working in the field to develop Ion-selective electrodes which shows better selectivity and sensitivity than the previously reported electrodes and can be used as electrocatalysts. These ISEs can be used as electrochemical sensors for the analysis of food products, drinking water, beverages, fertilizers, and for the analysis of sample containing toxic substances.