10-year anniversary for first industrial non-glass pH sensor

October 2002 News

The Industrial Measurement and Control business of Honeywell is celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the introduction of its Durafet pH sensor - the first industrial non-glass pH electrode.

In 1992, Leeds & Northrup introduced the Durafet pH electrode, a general-purpose solid-state pH electrode that uses ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (ISFET) technology to measure pH. Honeywell acquired Leeds & Northrup, and the patented Durafet technology, in 1996.

Durafet electrodes were designed to combat the breakage problems inherent in glass electrodes. Durafet electrodes offer a more rugged and durable alternative to traditional glass membrane electrodes by using a field-effect sensing device that provides an electrical output proportional to hydrogen ion concentration (pH). The industry response has been significant, and 10 years later the Durafet pH electrode continues to be Honeywell's top selling electrode.

Among the Durafet electrode's important features are its fast response, superior accuracy and excellent high temperature stability. Durafet has a proprietary film on the sensor's surface that results in drift-free pH readings.

"The industry was looking for an alternative to glass electrodes because of the inherent problems with breakage," explains Tom Griffiths, product manager for Honeywell's analytical products. "Durafet's introduction was the answer to this problem. It is ideal for tough industrial applications and critical processes where broken glass could contaminate the product, or electrode failure could ruin a production run."

The use of glass electrodes requires that the entire electrode must be discarded when the reference junction and/or gel becomes fouled - an expensive practice. The Durafet sensor permits the quick and inexpensive replacement of reference junction and gel, extending electrode life and saving money.

For more information contact Mike Littlejohn, Honeywell Southern Africa, 011 805 1201, [email protected], www.honeywell.co.za

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