Lithium-Conductive Solid-Contact Electrode for Stable Ion Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion-sensitive solid-contact electrodes fail to match the measurement properties and stability of traditional glass electrodes, particularly in terms of mechanical robustness and temperature stability, while also facing issues with orientation dependence and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A measuring element for an ion-sensitive solid-contact electrode comprising an ion-sensitive layer conductive for lithium ions, a single-phase electrically conductive layer with metallic lithium or a lithium-alloy, and a solid-state electrolyte layer between the ion-sensitive and conductive layers, which provides thermodynamic stability and minimizes interfacial equilibria, ensuring reliable and reversible measurements across a wide temperature range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional glass electrodes are used, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but mechanical strength and robustness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the contact layer from liquid electrolyte to solid-state material, transforming the electrode structure to eliminate mechanical fragility while preserving measurement functionality through solid-state ion conduction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structure combining ion-sensitive glass membrane with solid-state contact layer containing lithium compounds, creating a hybrid material system that integrates the advantages of both glass (measurement precision) and solid materials (mechanical strength)
2Strength
If solid-contact electrodes are used to improve mechanical strength, then reliability and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces lithium compounds (such as LiClO4, LiBF4, or lithium-containing glass) as intermediary substances that facilitate ion transfer between the glass membrane and external circuit, enabling solid-contact electrodes to achieve measurement precision comparable to traditional glass electrodes while maintaining mechanical strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the chemical composition and physical properties of the solid contact layer, adjusting lithium compound concentration and structural parameters to achieve optimal balance between mechanical strength and ion conduction efficiency for precise measurements
3Measurement precision
If glass electrodes are used, then temperature stability deteriorates, but measurement precision is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal and chemical parameters of the contact layer by using solid-state lithium compounds with stable crystal structures and appropriate melting points, enabling the electrode to maintain measurement precision across wide temperature ranges from sub-zero to high temperatures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution achieves robust, hysteresis-free, and electrochemically reversible ion activity measurements with high thermal stability and reduced delay times due to the use of lithium-conductive materials and a solid-state electrolyte layer, maintaining consistent performance and minimizing contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
an ion-sensitive layer arranged to contact a measurement medium when in operation and conductive for lithium ions
Implementation Method 2
a solid-state electrolyte layer arranged between the ion-sensitive layer and the electrically conductive layer, which provides thermodynamic stability and minimizes interfacial equilibria
Data Source
AI summary
A measuring element is disclosed for an ion-sensitive solid-contact electrode for measuring ion activity in a measurement medium. An ion-sensitive solid-contact electrode having such a measuring element and an electrochemical sensor having such a solid-contact electrode are also disclosed. The measuring element can include an ion-sensitive layer arranged to contact a measurement medium when in operation, and conductive to lithium ions; and a single-phase electrically conductive layer, which includes metallic lithium or a lithium-(0)-alloy. A solid-state electrolyte layer can be arranged between the ion-sensitive layer and the electrically conductive layer.