Redox-sensitive copolymer: a single-component pH sensor.

A novel redox-active copolymer has been developed, capable of sensing pH. The polymer incorporates the redox-active but pH-insensitive vinylferrocene moiety as the internal reference signal, alongside the redox-active and pH-sensitive vinylanthracene moiety. The anthracene moiety undergoes a Nernstian potential shift with pH. The various monomer and homopolymer components have been examined in turn and the electrochemical response of the polymer characterized. Furthermore, the pH response was found to be stable over a wide temperature range.