Low-Cost Potentiometric Sensor for Chloride Measurement in Continuous Industrial Process Control

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Environmental Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Growing demand for low-cost electrochemical sensors in drinking water control due to new legislation.
• Chloride ion determination is critical for industrial processes, corrosion prevention, and beverage quality (e.g., coffee taste).
• Need for continuous, real-time monitoring sensors that minimize calibration requirements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an easy, low-cost potentiometric sensor for chloride ions in aqueous solutions.
• To create a sensor suitable for long immersion times and reduced calibration frequency.
• To enable continuous and real-time analysis of chloride in water.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a chloride ion-selective electrode using a silver/silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) sintered pellet.
• Testing the sensor's response in model solutions simulating drinking water conditions.
• Evaluating sensor performance for stability, reproducibility, and accuracy over time.

Main Results:

• The Ag/AgCl potentiometric sensor demonstrated stable, reproducible, and accurate chloride quantification within 900 seconds.
• The sensor operated effectively without the need for a preliminary calibration test.
• The developed sensor is suitable for long immersion periods in aqueous mediums.

Conclusions:

• The novel Ag/AgCl potentiometric sensor provides a viable solution for low-cost, real-time chloride monitoring.
• The sensor's ability to function without frequent calibration reduces maintenance needs.
• Potential applications include continuous, in-situ monitoring in industrial processes and drinking water quality control.