ENHANCED ELECTROCHEMICAL PERFORMANCE OF SOLID-STATE ION SENSORS BASEDON SILICONE-RUBBER MEMBRANES

Results of optimization studies regarding the composition of silicone rubber films suitable for preparing miniaturized solid-state ion-selec tive sensors are presented. Using conventional macro ion-selective ele ctrodes (ISEs) it was shown that the addition of more lipophilic ionic additives and small amounts of an appropriate plasticizer to the sili cone matrix achieved optimal electroanalytical performance. The incorp oration of these components into the membrane along with the required ionophore can, however, influence membrane curing time and adhesion of the film to silicon nitride surfaces. Solid-state sensors with optimi zed silicone membrane compositions exhibit theoretical and reproducibl e electrochemical performance.