PVC-based 1,3,5-trithiane sensor for cerium(III) ions

A PVC membrane sensor for cerium(III) ions based on 1,3,5-trithiane as membrane carrier was prepared. The sensor has a linear dynamic range of 1.0 x 10(-1)-5.0 x 10(-5) M, with a Nernstian slope of 19.4 +/- 0.4 mV decade(-1), and a detection limit 3.0 x 10(-5) M. It has a fast response time of <15 s and can be used for at least 5 months without any considerable divergence in potentials. The proposed sensor revealed comparatively good selectivities with respect to alkali, alkaline earth, and some transition and heavy metal ions and could be used in a pH range of 5.0-8.0. It was used as an indicator electrode in potentiometric titration of oxalate and fluoride ions and in determination of F- ion in some mouth wash preparations.