Introduction
Preparing the LL-Ag/AgCl (gel) reference system for operation ensures stable electrode performance and reliable measurement results. Before beginning, gather the required materials, including the LL-Ag/AgCl reference system, electrolyte vessel, 3 mol/L potassium chloride (KCl) electrolyte solution, 3 mol/L KCl gel electrolyte, a syringe, and ultrapure water for rinsing the reference electrode. The maintenance-free reference system is factory sealed and must not be opened or refilled, as removing the diaphragm carrier will permanently damage the electrode.
During this procedure, the condition of the reference system is verified, the electrolyte vessel is filled with 3 mol/L KCl solution or the recommended 3 mol/L KCl gel electrolyte, and the diaphragm is allowed to become fully moistened before the electrode is assembled. Before use, confirm that there are no air bubbles around the Long-Life silver chloride cartridge or in front of the diaphragm. Following these steps helps ensure a stable reference potential and prepares the reference electrode for accurate and reliable electrochemical measurements.
Video
Topics Covered
- To put the reference electrode into operation, the following are required: reference system, electrolyte vessel, electrolyte solution c(KCl) = 3 mol/L, gel electrolyte c(KCl) = 3 mol/L, syringe and ultrapure water for rinsing the reference electrode.
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Control reference system (0:06)
- Ensure there are no air bubbles around the Long-Life silver chloride cartridge and in front of the diaphragm.
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Refilling the reference system (0:20)
- The 6.0728.x40 reference system is maintenance-free and cannot be refilled.
- Removing the diaphragm carrier will destroy the electrode.
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Filling the electrolyte container (0:27)
- When used with the maintenance-free reference system 6.0728.x40, only c(KCl) = 3 mol/L should be used as the external electrolyte. To extend maintenance intervals, the use of the gel electrolyte c(KCl) = 3 mol/L is recommended.
- Pour in aqueous KCl solution so that there is no air bubble in front of the diaphragm.
- The diaphragm must be completely moistened before use. This usually takes about 15 minutes. During this time, the electrolyte container must not be immersed in the solution.
- For clarity, the solution has been colored with potassium permanganate.
- Instead of the aqueous KCl solution, a gel electrolyte with c(KCl) = 3 mol/L can also be used from this point onwards.
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Assembling the electrode (01:36)
- The reference system and the electrolyte vessel together form the reference electrode.
- Before assembly, check that the electrolyte vessel is filled to the line without air bubbles, that there is no air bubble in front of the diaphragm of the reference system, and that the Long-Life silver chloride cartridge is surrounded by electrolyte solution.
Additional Support
If you encounter any issues or need additional help, please submit a support ticket through Metrohm Technical Support.
For more detailed training on any of these topics, explore our Metrohm Custom Training options.