Saturated Calomel Electrode

Description

The Saturated Calomel Electrode is a reference electrode consisting of a solution of mercury, calomel and KCL. Because of its stable potential and relative simplicity of fabrication, the calomel electrode is quite widely used in the testing of neutral solutions.

Technical Specs

User Manual, Maintenance and Precautions

1. Remove the rubber cap from the liquid junction before using the calomel electrode.
2. Ensure the salt bridge of the calomel electrode is filled with the salt bridge solution during measurement to complete the circuit. The solution level in the salt bridge should be higher than the sample solution to prevent reverse contamination.
3. The salt bridge solution must be free of large air bubbles to maintain an unobstructed electronic measurement circuit. If bubbles are present, hold the electrode firmly and shake it vigorously or tap it upright to release the bubbles.
4. Do not use the calomel electrode in media that react with it. The KCl solution in the salt bridge means it is unsuitable for systems that avoid chloride ions. The electrode should be used in neutral solutions, as acidic or alkaline conditions can damage it. If unavoidable, use a double salt bridge calomel electrode to isolate the test solution from the electrode core.
5. Regularly clean and replace the salt bridge solution. For general cleaning, remove any adhering stains promptly. To replace the salt bridge solution, remove the rubber cap from the injection port at the top of the electrode, extract the old solution, and inject fresh solution.
6. As the electrodes contain toxic substances such as mercury and calomel, strictly adhere to laboratory safety regulations during handling.
7. Avoid prolonged exposure of the electrode to air (more than a few minutes) to prevent the solution in the glass tube from leaking and evaporating, which could impair performance. For short-term storage, immerse the electrode in a KCl solution of the corresponding concentration. For long-term storage, replace the salt bridge solution, seal the electrode, and store it in a dark place.
8. The recommended operating temperature for calomel electrodes is room temperature, not exceeding 40°C.
9. Reference electrodes, including calomel electrodes, should not be cleaned using ultrasonic methods.

Product Illustration