A new beryllium ion-selective membrane electrode based on dibenzo(perhydrotriazino)aza-14-crown-4 ether

Beryllium(II) selective electrodes have been fabricated based on poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) matrix membranes containing newly synthesized neutral carrier dibenzo(perhydrotriazino)aza-14-crown-4 ethers as ionophore. Best performance was exhibited by the membrane having a composition ionophore (IIa):PVC:sodium tetraphenylborate (NaTPB):tributyl phosphate (TBP) in the ratio (w/w; mg) of 5:30:3:65. This membrane worked well over a wide concentration range 7.6 × 10−6 to 1.0 × 10−1 M of Be2+ with a Nernstian slope of 30.7 mV per decade of beryllium activity. The response time of the sensor is 15 s and the membrane can be used over a period of 4 months with good reproducibility. The proposed electrode works well in a wide pH range 3.0–9.0. It was successfully applied to the determination of beryllium in a mineral sample.

Variation of potential with Be2+ activity for membrane sensors based on dibenzo(perhydrotriazino)aza-14-crown-4 ether.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► It is the first report on an ion sensor using substituted aza-14-crown-4 for Be2+.
► Response time is 15 s and life time is more than 4 months with good reproducibility.
► The proposed electrode works well in a wide pH range 3.0–9.0.