Potentiometric Anion Selective Sensors

In comparison with selective receptors (and sensors) for cationic species, work on the selective complexation and detection of anions is of more recent date. There are three important components for a sensor, a transducer element, a membrane material that separates the transducer element and the aqueous solution, and the receptor molecule that introduces the selectivity. This review deals with potentiometric transduction elements that convert membrane potentials into a signal. The structure and properties of membrane materials is discussed. The nature of the anion receptor ultimately determines the selectivity. Both coordination chemistry and hydrogen bonding have been used to design anion receptor molecules. The integration of all three elements by covalent linkage of all elements in durable sensorsystem concludes the review.