Probing pH Levels in Civil Engineering Materials
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 21, Issue 2
Abstract
Optical spectroscopy is a viable approach for subsurface monitoring of pH levels in civil engineering materials. In this work, we describe a method by which optical fibers may be implemented as probes for the in situ measurement of pH levels. This paper describes the development of a nanoporous polymeric matrix, which hosts pH-sensitive chromoionophores. Details of how this pH indicator is strongly attached to the polymer chains through hydrogen bonds are described. Experiments are conducted in the laboratory in aqueous media for monitoring pH levels in highly alkaline and moderately acidic regions. Some detail on indicator immobilization, and signal reversibility are also reported.
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Acknowledgments
Support from the National Science FoundationNSF is gratefully acknowledged.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 21 • Issue 2 • February 2009
Pages: 51 - 57
Copyright
© 2009 ASCE.
History
Received: Dec 7, 2004
Accepted: Oct 16, 2006
Published online: Feb 1, 2009
Published in print: Feb 2009
Notes
Note. Associate Editor: John S. Popovics
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