In view of the observations, an adsorption mechanism is proposed as follows. Hydroxide ions are strongly adsorbed at the bronze surface in a deoxygenated system establishing a large negative potential (-1200 mV or less). When O2 molecules are introduced, they are also adsorbed at the surface, displacing the negatively charged hydroxide and resulting in a positive shift in electrode potential. A similar mechanism would also explain the O2 response in KC1.The success of EDTA titration in basic solutions could similarly be explained if the positive ions act in a manner similar to the oxygen molecules in displacing adsorbed OH-. The action of Li + in LiOH may have a similar explanation.
CONCLUSIONThe tungsten bronzes have been shown to be highly useful as indicating electrodes in the potentiometric determination of dissolved oxygen. Obvious applications are foreseen in the environmental field, resulting from the high degree of sensitivity attainable and the magnitude of the potential change per unit change of oxygen concentration. The relative ease with which potentiometric measurements can be made and the simplicity of the equipment add to the utility of measuring systems using these electrodes. Work in progress includes the development of a portable device for monitoring dissolved oxygen in surface and waste waters.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTThe authors wish to acknowledge the assistance of Howard R. Shanks of the Ames Laboratory for providing the tungsten bronze crystals which were used in this investigation and of Patrick R. Montoya for his help in conducting the experiments.