Characterization of a New Zn2+-Selective Electrode Based on Schiff-base as Ionophore

A new Zn2+-selective electrode based on Schiff-base as ionophore was prepared. Potentiometric responses revealed that this new electrode has good selectivity to Zn2+ relative to a wide variety of other cations. The effect of plasticizers and ion-exchanger on the performance of electrode was also studied. With the optimal membrane compositions, the electrode based on this new ionophore reveals a good Nernstian behavior over a wide concentration ranges of 1.0×10-6—1.0×10-3 M with a detection limit of 7.4×10−7 M Zn2+. The electrode possesses advantages of low resistance, very fast response time and long lifetime. The potentiometric responses are independent of the pH of the test solution in the pH range 3.4–5.8. The electrode can be used as indicator electrode for the potentiometric titration of Zn2+ in spiked water.