Influence of Ion Exchanger and Diluent Structure on Uranyl Ion Selective Electrode Response

A series of uranyl complexes were tested as the active substance In the membranes of uranyl Ion selective electrodes, ISEs. Complexes with phosphites as ligands, ion exchangers, give better electrodes than those with phosphates and phosphonates. This observation seems to be related to the fact that phosphites are weaker ligands and therefore more labile ligands for uranyl. A simple technique for the preparation of PVC-based membranes for ISEs is described.