pH Sensor Using Spin-State Detection for Stable Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pH sensors, such as glass electrodes, face challenges with high impedance due to low conductivity of the glass membrane, and quantum sensors have limitations in stability and accuracy for pH value determination.
Innovation Solution
A pH sensor utilizing a sensor unit with pH-sensitive materials that change spin states in response to pH values, detected by a spin-sensitive unit, which determines the pH value without a reference electrode and is chemically stable, using crystal bodies or gas cells for enhanced sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a glass electrode is used for pH measurement, then the pH value can be measured with low cross-sensitivities over a large measurement range, but the sensor exhibits high impedance due to low conductivity of the glass membrane
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional glass electrode measurement mechanism with a quantum sensor based on spin-state detection. Instead of measuring electrical potential across a high-impedance glass membrane, the invention uses optical detection of spin states in crystal bodies (such as diamond with nitrogen-vacancy centers) that are sensitive to pH-induced magnetic field changes, thereby eliminating the impedance problem while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the measurement parameter from electrical potential (voltage) to optical properties (fluorescence intensity or lifetime) of spin states. By detecting changes in spin state populations through optical excitation and fluorescence emission, the system achieves pH measurement without relying on the conductive properties of glass membranes
2Measurement precision
If quantum sensors are used for pH determination, then measurement precision can be improved, but stability and accuracy for pH value determination remain limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference crystal body or reference spin state as an intermediary for comparison. By simultaneously measuring the spin state of the pH-sensitive crystal and a reference crystal that is not sensitive to pH, the system can distinguish actual pH-induced changes from environmental fluctuations, thereby improving measurement stability and accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements feedback mechanisms through continuous monitoring of spin states and real-time calibration using reference measurements. The system uses the detected spin state information to adjust and maintain accurate pH determination, compensating for drift or environmental effects that could compromise stability
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional pH sensors are used, then chemical stability is achieved, but ion or molecule release into the medium may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrochemical measurement mechanisms with optical detection of spin states. The quantum sensor uses optical excitation and fluorescence detection to measure pH, eliminating the need for ion exchange or electrochemical reactions that could release ions or molecules into the medium, while maintaining chemical stability through the use of inert crystal materials
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 provides accurate and stable pH value determination without ion or molecule release into the medium, with extended measuring range capabilities and improved sensitivity to pH changes, leveraging spin state changes and fluorescence signals for precise measurements.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pH-sensitive material which has at least one spin state that changes as a function of a pH value
Implementation Method 2
a detection unit for detecting a magnetic-field-dependent fluorescence signal
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a pH-sensor for determining and/or monitoring a pH value of a medium, having a sensor unit with a wall in contact with the medium, and at least one pH-sensitive material, which has at least one spin state that changes as a function of a pH value. The at least one pH-sensitive material is arranged in or on a region of the wall in such a way that the at least one spin state is subjected to a change in the pH value of the medium. The pH-sensor also includes a spin-sensitive unit, which is configured to detect a variable associated with the at least one spin state, wherein the spin-sensitive unit is arranged in an environment of the at least one pH-sensitive material such that the spin-sensitive unit is subjected to a change in the spin state of the at least one pH-sensitive material.