Compiled by: Pavithra Manayil, Product Application Specialist, Cole-Parmer India
Written by: Andrade Shannon, Manager – MarCom, Cole-Parmer India
Metals testing is critical for mining success
Detecting the quantity of Silver present in an ore or alloy is a very critical step to maximize the output while minimizing the cost of mining operations. This detection and analysis of the purity of valuable metals ensure that the mining operations are working in an optimized manner and the quality and yield of the output are maintained. The most reliable method for analyzing Silver is using the potentiometric titration method—using a Silver Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) in tandem with an auto-titrator system.
Case Study:
About the customer
This company provides metals analysis by offering an accurate assessment of the purity of valuable metals (Silver in this case) and determines the exact value of the sample received.
Challenge: Cost-effective Electrodes
Our customer was using electrodes that were not cost-effective. They wanted to minimize the cost incurred for the electrodes while achieving the desired consistency and accuracy in measuring the concentration of Silver ions for several test samples. This process involves the measurement of the changes in the electromotive force (emf) brought about by the addition of a titrant (NaCL/KCL) of a precisely known concentration to a test solution (Silver dissolved in diluted Nitric Acid).
Solution: Double-Junction Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE)
We recommended the customer use the Oakton by Cole-Parmer® Silver/Sulfide Double-Junction Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) with BNC connector with their auto-titration system. This helped them to accurately detect and characterize the Silver content present in the sample in the alloys received from different mining sites. These are fast and accurate electrodes that do not require an external reference—they’re easier to use than separate sensing and reference half-cell electrodes.
Benefits
- Cost-effective and easy to use
- Available in both epoxy and glass body
- Epoxy electrodes have a durable epoxy body and are well-suited for portable field applications. The outer reference chamber is silver-free and resists contamination. These electrodes are refillable.
- Glass electrodes are double-junction in design, with a glass body that provides high-quality measurements for your laboratory applications. Improved glass seal enhances performance and reliability. Sealed inner junctions and refillable outer junctions accommodate special reference fill solutions—ideal for low-concentration measurements.
- Ergonomically efficient
The Oakton by Cole-Parmer® Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE), Silver/Sulfide, Double-Junction, BNC electrode saved the customer money and frustration. The electrodes were easy to use, provided the desired accuracy and consistency, and were economical.
For any queries related to ISE electrodes in India, contact us at [email protected] or call 704-599-6209.
For any queries outside of India, please contact a Cole-Parmer representative in your region.
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