Vernier K-BTA User manual

1
you plan to use the electrode outside the range of the standards provided, you
will need to prepare your own standards and use those for soaking.
Note: If the ISE needs to be transported to the field during the soaking process,
use the Short-Term ISE Soaking Bottle. Remove the cap from the bottle and fill
it 3/4 full with High Standard. Slide the bottle’s cap onto the ISE, insert it into
the bottle, and tighten.
For long-term storage, greater than 24 hours, make sure the sensor is stored in its
storage bottle with the sponge slightly damp.
Part II: Calibrate the ISE
Calibrating the Potassium ISE in Graphical Analysis 4
1. Connect the sensor according to the Getting Started section.
2. Click or tap the live readouts meter and choose Calibrate.
3. High Standard Calibration Point: The Potassium ISE should still be
soaking in the High Standard. The ISE should not rest on the bottom of the
container, and the 2 small white reference contacts near the tip of the
electrode should be immersed. Make sure no air bubbles are trapped below
the ISE.
4. Enter the concentration value of the High Standard (e.g., 100 for 100 mg/L)
in the edit box and click or tap Keep.
5. Low Standard Calibration Point: Remove the ISE from the High Standard,
rinse well with distilled water, and gently blot the ISE dry with a paper
towel. Place the ISE into the Low Standard. Make sure the ISE is not resting
on the bottom of the container, the white reference contacts near the tip of
the electrode are immersed, and no air bubbles are trapped below the ISE.
6. Enter the concentration value for the Low Standard (e.g., 1for 1 mg/L) and
click or tap Keep .
7. Click or tap Apply to complete the calibration process.
Calibrating the Potassium ISE in Logger Pro 3
1. Connect the sensor according to the Getting Started section.
2. Choose Calibrate from the Experiment menu and then click .
3. High Standard Calibration Point: The Potassium ISE should still be
soaking in the High Standard. The ISE should not rest on the bottom of the
container, and the 2 small white reference contacts near the tip of the
electrode should be immersed. Make sure no air bubbles are trapped below
the ISE.
4. Enter the concentration value of the High Standard (e.g., 100 for 100 mg/L)
in the edit box.
5. After the voltage reading for Reading 1 stabilizes (~2 minutes), click
.
6. Low Standard Calibration Point: Remove the ISE from the High Standard,
rinse well with distilled water, and gently blot the ISE dry with a paper
towel. Place the ISE into the Low Standard. Make sure the ISE is not resting
on the bottom of the container, the white reference contacts near the tip of
the electrode are immersed, and no air bubbles are trapped below the ISE.
Potassium Ion-
Selective Electrode
(Order Code K-BTA)
The Vernier Potassium Ion-Selective
Electrode is used to measure the
concentration of potassium (K+) ions in aqueous samples.
Note: Vernier products are designed for educational use. Our products are not
designed nor are they recommended for any industrial, medical, or commercial
process such as life support, patient diagnosis, control of a manufacturing
process, or industrial testing of any kind.
What's Included
lPotassium Ion-Selective Electrode, packed in a storage bottle
l30 mL bottle of High Standard solution with SDS (1000 mg/L K+)
l30 mL bottle of Low Standard solution with SDS (10 mg/L K+)
lShort-Term ISE Soaking Bottle
Compatible Software
See www.vernier.com/manuals/k-bta for a list of software compatible with the
Potassium Ion-Selective Electrode.
Getting Started
1. Prepare the electrode by soaking it in the High Standard solution for
30minutes. Refer to the next section for more information.
2. Connect the sensor to the interface (LabQuest Mini, LabQuest 3, etc.)
3. Start the appropriate data-collection software (Graphical Analysis, LabQuest
App, Logger Pro) if not already running. The software will identify the
sensor and load a default data-collection setup.
4. Perform a two-point calibration using the High and Low Standard solutions.
Refer to the next section for more information.
If you are collecting data using a Chromebook™, mobile device such as iPad®
or Android™ tablet, or a Vernier wireless sensor or interface, please see the
following link for up-to-date connection information:
www.vernier.com/start/k-bta
Preparing the Potassium ISE for Use
Note: Follow this two-part process before taking measurements with your ISE.
Part I: Soak the Electrode
Soak the electrode in the High Standard solution (included with the ISE) for
approximately 30minutes. The ISE should not rest on the bottom of the
container, and the small white reference contacts near the tip of the electrode
should be immersed. Make sure no air bubbles are trapped below the ISE.
Important: Do not leave the ISE soaking for more than 24hours. Important: If

2
Using Your Potassium ISE with Other Vernier Sensors
Some combinations of sensors interfere with each other when placed in the same
solution. The degree of interference depends on many factors. For more
information, see www.vernier.com/til/638/
Using Ionic Strength Adjuster (ISA) Solutions to Improve Accuracy
For optimal results at low concentrations of ions, a standard method for making
measurements with the Potassium Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) is to add ionic
strength adjuster (ISA) solutions to each of your standard solutions and samples.
Adding an ISA ensures that the total ion activity in each solution being
measured is nearly equal, regardless of the specific ion concentration. This is
especially important when measuring very low concentrations of specific ions.
The ISA contains no ions common to the Potassium Ion-Selective Electrode
itself. Note: The additions of ISA to samples or standards does not need to have
a high level of accuracy— combining the ISA solution and sample solution
counting drops using a disposable Beral pipet works fine. We recommend using
1M NaCl solution as the ISA solution for the Potassium ISE.
Videos
View videos related to this product at www.vernier.com/k-bta
Specifications
Range 1 to 39,000 mg/L
Reproducibility (precision) ±11% of full scale (calibrated 10 to 1000 mg/L)
Interfering ions Rb2+, Cs2+, NH4+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Li+
pH range 2–12
Temperature range 0 to 40°C (no temperature compensation)
Electrode slope 56 ± 4 mV/decade at 25°C
Calibration voltages, typical 2.7 V (1000 ppm), 1.9 V (10 ppm)
Electrode resistance 1 to 10 MΩ
Minimum sample size 3 mL in a 50 mL beaker
Electrode length 155 mm
Body diameter 12 mm
Cap diameter 16 mm
Cable length 100 cm
Care and Maintenance
Storing an Ion-Selective Electrode
Proper care and storage are important for optimal longevity of your Potassium
ISE
7. Enter the concentration value for the Low Standard (e.g., 1for 1 mg/L).
8. After the voltage reading stabilizes, click .
9. To save the calibration to the sensor, follow the steps below:
a. Click the Calibration Storage tab at the top of the dialog box.
b. Click . Click .
c. Click to continue. Click to complete the process.
Calibrating the Potassium ISE with LabQuest App
1. Connect the Potassium ISE to LabQuest. Choose Calibrate from the Sensors
menu and select Calibrate Now.
2. High Standard Calibration Point: The Potassium ISE should still be
soaking in the High Standard. The ISE should not rest on the bottom of the
container, and the small white reference contacts near the tip of the electrode
should be immersed. Make sure no air bubbles are trapped below the ISE.
3. Enter the concentration of the High Standard (e.g., 100 for 100 mg/L) for
Reading 1.
4. After the voltage reading stabilizes (~2 minutes), tap Keep.
5. Low Standard Calibration Point: Remove the ISE from the High Standard,
rinse well with distilled water, and gently blot the ISE dry with a paper
towel. Place the ISE into the Low Standard. Make sure the ISE is not resting
on the bottom of the container, the white reference contacts near the tip of
the electrode are immersed, and no air bubbles are trapped below the ISE.
6. Enter the concentration of the Low Standard (e.g., 1for 1 mg/L) for
Reading2.
7. After the voltage reading stabilizes, tap Keep.
8. To save the calibration to the sensor, follow the steps below:
a. Tap Storage.
b. Tap Save Calibration to Sensor. Tap OK.
c. Tap OK to complete the process.
Using the Product
Collecting Data
1. Make sure the sensor is properly calibrated. If the meter has a reading of
1.0 mg/L and the sensor is not in a 1.0 mg/L solution, you need to calibrate.
After calibration, rinse off the tip of the ISE and blot it dry with a paper
towel.
2. Insert the tip of the ISE into the aqueous sample to be tested. Important:
Make sure the ISE is not resting on the bottom of the container, the white
reference contacts near the tip of the electrode are immersed, and no air
bubbles are trapped below the ISE. Note: Do not completely submerge the
sensor. The handle is not waterproof.
3. Hold the ISE still until the reading stabilizes and record the displayed
reading. Note: With some aqueous samples, especially those at high
concentrations, it could take several minutes for the reading of the Potassium
ISE to stabilize. If you know the approximate concentrations of your
samples, it is best to analyze them from lowest concentration to highest.

3
permeable to the ion exchanger, but impermeable to water. It allows the sensing
cell to contact the sample solution and separates the internal filling solution
from the sample. The membrane module has a shelf life of 12–24months and is
replaceable.
The voltage developed between the sensing and reference electrodes is a
measure of the concentration of the reactive ion being measured. As the
concentration of the ion reacting at the sensing electrode varies, so does the
voltage measured between the two electrodes.
As described in the Nernst equation, ISE response is a linear equation:
E=Eo +m(ln a)
where Eis the measured voltage, Eo is the standard potential for the
combination of the two half cells, mis the slope, ln is natural log, and ais the
activity of the measured ion species.
Assuming the ionic strength is fairly constant, the Nernst equation may be
rewritten to
describe the electrode response to the concentration, C, of the measured ionic
species:
E=Eo +m(lnC)
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting and FAQs, see www.vernier.com/til/3115
Repair Information
If you have watched the related product video(s), followed the troubleshooting
steps, and are still having trouble with your Potassium Ion-Selective Electrode,
contact Vernier Technical Support at [e-mail] or call 888-837-
6437. Support specialists will work with you to determine if the unit needs to
be sent in for repair. At that time, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA)
number will be issued and instructions will be communicated on how to return
the unit for repair.
Accessories/Replacements
Potassium ISE Replacement Membrane Modules
The Potassium ISE has a PVC membrane module with a limited life expectancy.
The module is warranted to be free from defects for a period of twelve (12)
months from the date of purchase. It is possible, however, that you may get
somewhat longer use than the warranty period. If you notice a reduced response
(e.g., distinctly different voltages or voltage ranges during calibration), it is
probably time to replace the membrane module. Important: Do not order
membrane modules far in advance of the time you will be using them; the
process of degradation takes place even when they are stored on the shelf.
lLong-term storage of the ISE (longer than 24 hours): Moisten the sponge in
the bottom of the long-term storage bottle with distilled water. When you
finish using the ISE, rinse it off with distilled water and blot it dry with a
tissue. Loosen the lid of the bottle and insert the ISE. Note: The tip of the
ISE should NOT be touching the sponge. Check to be sure the reference
mark is inside, rather than outside the bottle or under the grommet. Tighten
the lid. This keeps the electrode in a humid environment, which prevents the
reference junctions from completely drying out.
lShort-term, wet storage (less than 24 hours): Fill the short-term soaking
bottle 3/4 full with High Standard. Loosen the cap, insert the electrode into
the bottle, and tighten.
Maintaining and Replacing the ISE Standard Calibration Solutions
Having accurate standard solutions is essential for performing good calibrations.
The two standard solutions that were included with your ISE can last a long
time if you take care not to contaminate them. At some point, you will need to
replenish your supply of standard solutions.
Vernier sells replacement standards in 500 mL bottles. Order codes are:
lK-LST:Potassium Low Standard: 10 mg/L
lK-HST:Potassium High Standard, 1000 mg/L
To prepare your own standard solutions, use the information in the table below.
Note: Use glassware designed for accurate volume measurements, such as
volumetric flasks or graduated cylinders. All glassware must be very clean.
Standard
Solution
Concentration
(mg/L or ppm)
Preparation Method using High
Quality Distilled Water
Potassium (K+)
High Standard 1000 mg/L K+1.907 g KCl / 1 L solution
Potassium (K+)
Low Standard 10 mg/L K+Dilute the High Standard by a factor of 100 (from 1000 mg/L to 10 mg/L)
Do not wrap the cable tightly around the sensor for storage. Repeatedly doing
so can irreparably damage the wires and is not covered under warranty.
How the Sensor Works
The Vernier Potassium Ion-Selective Electrode (ISE) is a membrane-based
electrode that measures a specific ion (K+) in an aqueous solution. When the
membrane of the electrode is in contact with a solution containing the specific
ion, a voltage, dependent on the level of that ion in solution, develops at the
membrane. The ISE is a combination style electrode. The voltage develops in
relation to an internal Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The ISE measures for the
specific ion concentration directly. Samples need to be aqueous to avoid
contaminating or dissolving the membrane. The Vernier Potassium Ion-Selective
Electrode has a solid polymer membrane. The membrane is a porous plastic disk,

4
Vernier Software & Technology
13979 SW Millikan Way • Beaverton, OR 97005-2886
Toll Free [phone] • [phone] • Fax [phone]
[e-mail] • www.vernier.com
Rev. 12/04/20
Logger Pro, Graphical Analysis, Vernier LabQuest, Vernier LabQuest Mini, and other marks shown are our
trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States.
iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.
All other marks not owned by us that appear herein are the property of their respective owners, who may or may
not be affiliated with, connected to, or sponsored by us.
Additional Vernier Ion-Selective Electrodes
Vernier sells Ion-Selective Electrodes that measure the concentration of
ammonium (NH4+), calcium (Ca2+), chloride (Cl–), and nitrate (NO3–) ions in
aqueous solutions.
Order codes are:
Item Order Code
Ammonium Ion-Selective Electrode NH4-BTA
Calcium Ion-Selective Electrode CA-BTA
Chloride Ion-Selective Electrode CL-BTA
Nitrate Ion-Selective Electrode NO3-BTA
Electrode Storage Bottles, pkg of 5 BTL-ES
Standard High Potassium ISE Solution K-HST
Standard Low Potassium ISE Solution K-LST
Potassium Replacement Module K-MOD
Warranty
Warranty information for this product can be found on the Support tab at
www.vernier.com/k-bta
General warranty information can be found at www.vernier.com/warranty
Disposal
When disposing of this electronic product, do not treat it as household waste. Its
disposal is subject to regulations that vary by country and region. This item
should be given to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical
and electronic equipment. By ensuring that this product is disposed of correctly,
you help prevent potential negative consequences on human health or on the
environment. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about recycling this product, contact your local
city office or your disposal service.
Battery recycling information is available at www.call2recycle.org
The symbol, shown here, indicates that this product must not be disposed of
in a standard waste container.