pH Electrodes

pH Electrodes

The pH electrodes are sensors used to compare the relative alkalinity or acidity of a solution at a particular temperature. The pH value is related to the hydrogen ion (H+) and hydroxyl ion (OH-) concentrations in water or solutions. The pH value is one of the most common measurements in the water treatment and chemical process industries. The pH value of 7 indicates a neutral solution i.e. water. When the pH of water is below 7, it is acidic because the activity of hydrogen ions is greater than that of hydroxide ions. When the pH is above 7, the solution is basic (or alkaline) because the activity of hydroxide ions is greater than hydrogen ions. A high or low pH value may be the sign of heavy contamination and is unfit for drinking for potable purposes.

Cannon Water Technology provides pH electrodes from leading brands like Atlantic Water Technologies, Sensorex, Pyxis, and so on. We have been supplying pH electrodes to various water and wastewater treatment facilities across the US for several years now.

Working of pH electrodes Explained

The pH electrode compares the reading of a sample with the standard reading whose pH value is pre-defined. The pH electrodes feature a pH element, which is made of a thin glass membrane. Two different pH value liquids are filled on both sides of this membrane. The electrodes produce an electrical potential between these liquids. This electrical potential is produced as a result of the alkalinity or acidity in the solution. The pH element is designed such that it assures free permeability of H+ ions. The electrode features neutral solution. The pH probe is immersed in the solution comprising H+ ions. The H+ ions permeate the pH element and exert potential on the sensing electrode. Usually positive potential is exerted on the electrode. This potential difference is then measured by the pH meter and converted to an easily readable output value. If the probe is immersed to an alkaline solution, the H+ ions will stay outside the probe and OH-ions will permeate the probe. This usually creates a negative potential, which is measured using the pH meter.

Features of pH electrodes Offered by Cannon Water Technology

The following features of our pH electrodes make them a standard for industry pH measurements.

  • Many of our pH electrodes utilize differential pH measurement technique, which assures reliable performance in challenging environments.
  • All our pH electrodes feature reliable and durable construction, which makes them resist aggressive chemicals that may be present in water and chemical solutions.
  • Some models are designed to assure automatic temperature compensation, which assure accurate measurements even in ambient conditions.
  • Most models are offered as sealed products, and they are ideal for pressurized applications.
  • All pH electrode types offered here are backed with manufacturer’s limited warranty.

The pH electrode types, their features, and performance in different operational environments will help you decide the right product for your applications. In our selection, you will find pH electrodes with different body types, electrode body styles, references, and junctions to suit different applications. If you have any query regarding any of these pH electrode features or working then feel free to contact us via email or phone. All customer inquiries will be answered quickly and in an efficient manner to provide you the right solution for your needs.

FAQs

Q. What is pH electrode or probe?

A pH electrode is a scientific instrument used to measure the acidity or alkalinity of a solution, typically in chemistry or biology experiments.

Q. What is the structure of pH electrode?

A pH electrode consists of three main parts:

(1) Glass membrane - It is a thin layer of special glass at the tip of the electrode that is selectively permeable to hydrogen ions (H+).  

(2) Reference electrode - It is a second electrode located inside the pH electrode that provides a stable electrical reference point for the measurement.

(3) Body - It is the main body of the electrode that houses the glass membrane and reference electrode. It is usually made of plastic or glass and is designed to be easily immersed in the solution being measured.

Q. Why is a pH electrode calibrated?

A pH electrode must be calibrated to ensure accurate & reliable measurements. The calibration process adjusts the electrode's output signal to match the expected voltage values for each buffer solution, which ensures that the electrode is measuring pH correctly.

Q. How often do you calibrate pH electrodes?

The frequency of pH electrode calibration depends on many factors, including the type of electrode, the application, and the manufacturer's recommendations. However, as a general rule, pH electrodes should be calibrated at least once a day or before each use.

Q. What is the expected life of an electrode?

In general, most pH electrodes have a lifespan of six months to two years, although some may last longer with proper care and maintenance.