Construction and evaluation of an optical pH sensor based on polyaniline–porous Vycor glass nanocomposite

This work describes the preparation of a polyaniline (Pani)–porous Vycor glass (PVG) nanocomposite and its use as sensing phase in an optical fibre pH sensor. Nanocomposites of Pani–PVG were prepared by in situ polymerisation of aniline absorbed inside the pores of a PVG (Corning 7930) with an average porous size of 8 nm. The optical sensor was constructed by fixing a PVG slide onto a distal end of bifurcated optical fibre bundle, with a cyanoacrylic resin. The sensor response was found to be reversible in the pH range from 5 to 12 and linear from pH 7.4 to 9.5. Response times of 4, 8 and >16 min were obtained for slide thickness’ of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mm, respectively. Changes of temperature, ranging from 20 to 40°C, showed minor effect on the dynamic range. Similarly, the ionic strength (0.15, 0.30 and 0.50 mol l−1) and the nature of the ions (NaCl, KCl and NaClO4) showed minor influence on the sensor response. Leaching of Pani was not observed and the sensor lifetime was determined as being at least 5 months. These results indicate that a Pani–PVG nanocomposite is suitable for the construction of optical pH sensors, with good analytical performance, since the glass slides can be prepared with good reproducibility and durability.