Universal cell assembly for laboratory-scale permeation assays through solid-state semipermeable membranes

Abstract

This technical note describes the assembly of a glass-made universal cell that was designed for solid-state membrane permeation or electrodiffusion experiments. It can be used to measure the permeation rates of practically any molecule or ion in solution and even in gas phase through solid membranes. The experiments, driven by concentration gradients or electric fields, may be followed and recorded in real time over long periods of time using serial data acquisition programs. The cell itself allows the utilization of a wide range of different chemical sensors and up to eight of them simultaneously.