AES study of ion-selective membranes based on chalcogenide glasses

Abstract Thin-film sensors based on evaporated layers of pure and doped chalcogenide glasses with thickness in the nanometer range have been developed. The layers have been investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy and AES spectroscopy. Electrochemical characterization has been performed by potentiometric measurements. The heavy-metal sensors showed high sensitivity towards Ag+ and Cu2+ ions, down to the concentration range of 10−6 mol/l, short response time and good selectivity to interfering ions. The electrochemical performance of sensors for Pb2+ ions, however, is not at the same level. The reasons for this difference have been established.