Potentiometric Electrode Sensor Material for Surfactant Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for surfactant analysis are hindered by the use of harmful solvents, instability of electrodes in two-phase media, and limited sensitivity, especially in alkaline conditions, making them unsuitable for routine and automated analysis.
Innovation Solution
A sensor material with a polymer that can swell in organic solvents, having a Shore hardness between 74A to 93A, and incorporating an ionophore, which is stable across a wide pH range and maintains low impedance, allowing for precise and stable potentiometric determination of surfactants in both aqueous and two-phase media.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If PVC membranes with plasticizer are used for surfactant determination, then the electrodes can be used in aqueous media, but they dissolve in organic media and cannot be used in two-phase titration media
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the membrane material from conventional PVC-plasticizer体系 to a polymer matrix containing specific surfactants and ion-exchange resins. This parameter change enables the membrane to resist dissolution in organic media while maintaining functionality in both aqueous and organic phases, thus expanding the application range to two-phase titration media.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite membrane material by combining polymer matrix, surfactants, and ion-exchange resins. This composite structure provides both chemical stability in organic media and functional activity for surfactant determination, resolving the contradiction between versatility and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If carbon-based electrodes (paraffin/graphite paste) are used in organic solvents, then they can be used in two-phase media, but they wear out quickly and require frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a composite membrane material that combines the chemical stability of polymer materials with the functional properties needed for surfactant sensing. This composite structure resists wear and degradation in organic solvents, significantly extending the electrode service life while maintaining adaptability to two-phase media.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves away from disposable carbon-based electrodes toward a durable, regenerable membrane electrode that can withstand repeated use in organic media, reducing long-term costs and waste.
3Loss of time
If polymer coated wire electrodes are used for surfactant determination, then they provide long response times, but they cannot be used in alkaline media and show insufficient signal stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the membrane composition to include components that are stable across a wide pH range, including alkaline conditions. The specific combination of polymer, surfactant, and ion-exchange resin creates a membrane that maintains its structural integrity and sensing function from pH 2 to pH 12, expanding the applicable pH range.
4Measurement precision
If conventional electrodes are used for surfactant analysis, then they can provide measurement signals, but the signals are unstable and drifting, requiring complex shielding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the membrane composition and electrode structure to minimize electrical impedance and signal drift. By carefully selecting the polymer matrix, surfactant concentration, and ion-exchange resin properties, the electrode achieves stable potentiometric signals with low drift, reducing the need for complex shielding and signal processing systems.
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 sensor material provides a maintenance-free, fast, and precise measurement signal, stable across a wide pH range, including alkaline conditions, and is resistant to wear, ensuring accurate surfactant analysis without the need for frequent replacement.
Implementation Method 1
sensor material which comprises a polymer material that can swell at least to a limited extent in organic solvents
Implementation Method 2
incorporating an ionophore, which is stable across a wide pH range
Data Source
AI summary
The sensor material for a potentiometric electrode for determining ionic or non-ionic surfactants in aqueous or organic media, comprises a polymer material, which is swellable in organic solvents and has a shore hardness of 40A-80D, 74A-93A or 55D-75D, an ionophore, and an additive. An independent claim is included for a procedure for the production of the sensor material.