Development of a potentiometric sensor for selective and sensitive determination of propranolol in drug formulations containing active ingredient propranolol and its applications

In this thesis study, a potentiometric sensor was developed for the determination of propranolol in drug formulations containing this active ingredient. Propranolol-sodium carbonate ion pair was synthesized to serve as ionophore in the structure of the developed sensor. Membrane compositions were prepared using the synthesized propranolol-sodium carbonate ionophore, along with varying ratios of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and plasticizer. Propranolol selective sensors were fabricated by coating solid-contact copper cables with the prepared membrane compositions. Among the prepared sensors, the one with a membrane composition of 4.0% ionophore, 32.0% PVC and 64.0% plasticizer by weight, was identified as exhibiting selective behaviour towards propranolol. The potentiometric performance characteristics of the sensor were then tested. Considering the data obtained, the sensor exhibited a linear response over a concentration range of 1.0 × 10-6 - 1.0 × 10-2 M, with a slope of 49.6 ± 0.7 mV. The response time of the sensor was determined to be 7 seconds on average. It was observed that the sensor operated effectively within a pH range of 6.0 to 10.0, maintaining a stable potential response without being influenced by pH fluctuations. A reliable potentiometric response was obtained by keeping the potential values of the developed sensor constant between 15 - 40 °C. The lifespan of the sensor was established as 8 weeks. In addition, the developed sensor was successfully applied in potentiometric titration applications for the determination of propranolol.