STUDY AND APPLICATION OF COPPER ION SELECTIVE ELECTRODE IN ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLE

Mixed silver-copper sulfide precipitates have been prepared between metal ions (Ag+ ; Cu2+) reversible to sulfide ion and tested for their suitability as Cu2+ ion-selective electrode (ISE). Characterization of coated wire electrode has been carried out by potentiometry and pHmetry. Explanations for Nernstian response are also discussed. Some potentiometric characteristics such as: Nernstian slope, calibration curves, detection limits, pH range and time response of the electrode are also discussed. Applicability of this electrode is checked with respect to determination of copper (heavy metal) in lake water samples used for drinking purposes. These findings offer a novel approach to understanding the response mechanism of electrodes based on mixed metal sulfides.