Study on electrolytic conductivity measurements

Project Description

To assess the state of the art of the methods used to measure and certify solutions for electrolytic conductivity, general aspects concerning electrolytic conductivity will be discussed, with attention focussed on the technical problems of conductivity measurement. A list of topics includes:

• Theoretical background: Conductivity in electrolytic medium, dependence on [KCl] or salt concentration
• Primary and secondary cells: Construction, ion leakage, contamination (oil leakage, bubbles)
• Temperature: temperature dependence of conductivity, temperature control/measurement, cell thermal expansion
• Electrical behavior: Electrical lump model, polarisation effects, audio frequency AC/DC apparatus, thermostatic liquid
• Reference materials: low electrolytic conductivity standards, sample preparation (Buoyancy, purity), CO2 equilibrium, alternative (organic) standards
• Perspectives : High T, Low conductivity measurements

Final Report 2002-01-02

The project consisted of a meeting/workshop for experts in conductivity measurements. The aim of this meeting was to assess the state of the art of the methods used to measure and certify solutions for electrolytic conductivity focussing on the technical problems of conductivity measurement.
The meeting has been held 18 and 19 October 2001 at NMi and the following topics were adressed:

• Theoretical background: Conductivity in electrolytic medium, dependence on [KCl] or salt concentration
• Primary and secondary cells: Construction, ion leakage, contamination (oil leakage, bubbles).
• Temperature: temperature dependence of conductivity, temperature control/measurement, cell thermal expansion
• Electrical behavior: Electrical lump model, polarization effects, audio frequency AC/DC apparatus, thermostatic liquid
• Reference materials: low electrolytic conductivity standards, sample preparation (Buoyancy, purity), CO2 equilibrium, alternative (organic) standards
• Perspectives : Low conductivity measurements
• Results from the CCQM-P22 Pilot Comparison on electrolytic conductivity
   

One of the main conclusions of the meeting is that improved co-operation is needed amongst the institutes active in the field of conductivity measurements.
A detailed report of the meeting has been prepared and has been sent to the participants for comments.