Sensor membrane, a method for the preparation thereof, a sensor and a layered membrane structure for such sensor

Abstract

A membrane for a sensor, a method for the preparation thereof, a layered membrane structure and a sensor for analytical measurements which require controlled analyte permeability. The membrane, layered structure and sensor may be used for biological, physiological and chemical measurements, however, are especially applicable for electrochemical measurements of glucose, lactate, urea and creatinine. The membrane comprises at least one polymer material, at least one surfactant, and at least one hydrophilic compound in admixture to provide a membrane structure in which micelles of hydrophilic compound lined with thin layers of surfactant are randomly distributed in the bulk polymer of the membrane. Upon conditioning of the membrane a structure of a percolating network of pores lined with surfactant is formed which has excellent permeability properties. The membrane has the additional advantage of a proper adhesion to polymer encapsulant structures. The membrane is prepared from a mixture of at least one polymer material, at least one surfactant, at least one hydrophilic compound and at least one solvent.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.