Can anyone explain the intended function of the storage solution? I have it on good authority that a) it is intended to be identical to the reference solution within the bulb, which by implication is 4M KCl, maintaining a stable (I presume that means osmotically) condition, and that b) 4.0 buffer is a viable substitute. The two can't possibly, as it appears to this layman, be consistent. Little help?
Rob, I just looked up the description for the Oakton pH electrode storage solution that the Grape sells. It says:
"4 oz bottle of Oakton pH electrode storage solution. Maintains a gel layer on the pH electrode bulb and minimizes clogging."
I know that the solution contains Potassium chloride (KCl) since I get deposits of the salt on the outside of the vial that the electrode is stored in from evaporation. With all due respect to Dave (a.k.a. LOL
), I am not sure that I would want to store my electrode in a straight weak acid (your homemade vinegar, or plain 4.0 buffer for that matter), because I would be afraid of the acid contaminating the osmotic characteristics of the bulb, but that is me. A bottle of the Oakton stuff lasts me about a year and I feel the 13 bucks I spend on it gives me some piece of mind that I am following the manufacturer's recommendations and thirteen bucks is a lot cheaper than a new electrode. That said, I am sure you might be able to find the storage solution cheaper online.