Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026

An Anaerobic Biosensor Assay for the Detection of Mercury and Cadmium
Published on: December 17, 2018
Potentiometric polymeric membrane electrodes for mercury detection using calixarene ionophores
Sonika Tyagi1, Himanshu Agarwal, Saiqa Ikram
1Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), New Delhi 110025, India.
Abstract:
It is here established that potentiometric polymeric membrane electrodes based on electrically neutral ionophores are a useful analytical tool for the detection of heavy metal ions from environmental and industrial waste water. PVC based membrane containing p-tert-butyl-calix[4]arenethioether derivative as active material along with sodiumtetraphenylborate (NaTPB) as solvent mediator and dibutylphthalate as a plasticizer in the ratio 45:9:460:310 (w/w%) (I:NaTPB:DBP:PVC) exhibits good properties with a Nernstian response of 29.50+/-1.0 mV per decade of activity and a working concentration range of 7.2 x 10(-8)-1.0 x 10(-1) M. The electrode gave more stable potential readings when used around pH 2.5-6.8 and exhibits fast response time of 14 s. The sensors were found to work satisfactorily in partially non-aqueous media up to 40% (v/v) content of acetone, methanol or ethanol and could be used over a period of 7-9 months. Excellent selectivity for Hg(2+) ions is indicated by match potential method and fixed interference method. The sensors could be used successfully in the estimation of mercury in different sample.
Related Concept Videos
Potentiometry: Membrane Electrodes
Potentiometry: Types of Electrodes
The Standard Hydrogen Electrode (SHE) is a widely used reference electrode that maintains zero potential across all temperatures. However, its need for a continuous hydrogen gas supply renders it impractical for everyday use.
An alternative to SHE is the Saturated Calomel Electrode (SCE). This electrode features an...
Controlled-Potential Coulometry: Electrolytic Methods
The chosen potential ensures...
Electrodes: Overview
There are two main types of electrodes in electrochemical cells. The first type, known as the working or indicator electrode, has a potential that is sensitive to the analyte's concentration and reacts to changes in the...
Voltammetric Techniques: Linear-Scan (E vs Time)
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography: Types of Detectors
