Computer-based automation of concentration measurements with ion-selective electrodes

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Electrochemistry
• Computer Science

Background:

• Automated chemical analysis is crucial for efficient and accurate measurements.
• Ion-selective electrodes (ISEs) are widely used for determining ionic concentrations.
• Integrating laboratory equipment with computer systems enhances data handling and analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and describe an integrated computer system for automating concentration measurements using ion-selective electrodes (ISEs).
• To present software for real-time data acquisition, processing, and graphical representation of ISE measurements.
• To demonstrate the system's capability in studying continuous concentration changes in aqueous solutions.

Main Methods:

• An expandable ionanalyzer coupled with a personal computer (PC) was utilized.
• Measurements and calibrations were performed in a thermostated sample changer with a flow cell.
• Data acquisition and processing were managed by two custom software programs, Transorion and Graforion, via an RS 232-C interface.

Main Results:

• The integrated system successfully automated concentration measurements using ISEs.
• The Transorion program provided real-time graphic visualization of the measurement process.
• The Graforion program facilitated efficient data management, listing, and plotting.

Conclusions:

• The developed automated system enhances the efficiency and accuracy of ion concentration measurements.
• The software facilitates comprehensive data analysis and presentation.
• The system is effective for monitoring dynamic changes in ion concentrations, as demonstrated with potassium iodide solutions.