TEST MEANS AND TESTER FOR MEASURING ION IN AQUEOUS TEST SAMPLE, AND MANUFACTURE THEREOF AND MEASURING METHOD USING THESE MEANS AND TESTER

摘要

A test means for determining the presence of an ion in an aqueous test sample is disclosed, as well as a test device incorporating the test means, a method for preparing it and a method for using it. The test means comprises a hydrophilic carrier matrix incorporated with finely divided globules of a hydrophobic vehicle. The hydrophobic vehicle contains an ionophore capable of forming a complex with the ion, and a reporter substance capable of interacting with the complex of ionophore and ion to produce a detectable response. The test device comprises an elongated support member having an upper substantially flat face, the test means being affixed to the flat face of the support member. The method for preparing the device comprises forming a first mixture of water and a hydrophilic polymer, forming a second mixture of a hydrophobic vehicle, an ionophore capable of forming a complex with the ion, and a reporter substance capable of interacting with the complex of the ionophore and ion to produce a detectable response, combining the first and second mixtures to produce a stable emulsion of finely divided globules of the second mixture in the first mixture, coating the emulsion onto an elongated support member having an upper, substantially flat face, and evaporating the water from the emulsion to product a hydrophilic carrier matrix incorporated with finely divided globules of the second mixture, the matrix being thereby affixed to the flat face of the support member. The method for using the test means or device comprises contacting it with the test sample and observing a detectable response.