Rapid electrochemical sensor for uranium(vi) assessment in aqueous media

Abstract

The significance of reliable monitoring of uranium levels in water recourses calls for the development of time-saving, robust, and accurate methods for its estimation. In this view, the current study describes the design and analytical parameters of a potentiometric membrane sensor for uranium(VI) ions. The sensor is based on a new Schiff base derivative, as an ionophore, that was synthesized and structurally characterized by elemental, FTIR, and ¹HNMR analyses. The impact of the membrane constituents was studied and the membrane composition of PVC (32.50) : o-NPOE (65.00) : ionophore (2.00) :  KTpClPB (0.50) (%, w/w) achieved the optimal performance. A Nernestian response was observed for uranium(VI) ions within the concentration range 1.00 × 10⁻⁶ to 1.00 × 10⁻¹ mol L⁻¹. The sensor revealed a low detection limit of 3.90 × 10⁻⁷ mol L⁻¹ with satisfactory reproducibility. Stable and reproducible potentials were obtained within a short time (9 s) over the pH range 2.10–4.21. The impact of possible competing ions was investigated and the selectivity coefficients revealed appropriate selectivity for uranium(VI) ions over various cations without significant interference. The sensor's performance was examined by determining the amount of uranium(VI) in water samples and the results showed no significant differences from those obtained by the ICP-OES method.