Abstract: The present invention provides processes for the preparation of ionic sensors that include a matrix material, such as ion-permeable cellulose, having a sensing component included therein, such as a fluorescent dye, and an opaque overcoat material.

Abstract: Sensing elements, useful in sensing the concentration of a gas, e.g., carbon dioxide, in a medium, e.g. blood, and methods for making such sensing elements are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method comprises continuously placing a sensing composition precursor in contact with a continuous web, forming a continuous sensing composition from the precursor, and applying a continuous opaque film to the sensing composition. A plurality of individual sensing elements are formed from this composite structure. These sensing elements, which each have very similar sensing characteristics, are placed in a sensor fixture for use.

Abstract: A sensor for measuring the concentration of an analyte in a medium is disclosed. In one embodiment, the sensor comprises a sensing element including a matrix material and, covalently bonded thereto, one or more monomeric indicator components each of which is capable of providing a first emitted signal of a given wavelength in response to being exposed to an excitation signal. The sensing element is capable of providing a second emitted signal having a longer wavelength than the first emitted signal or signals in response to being exposed to the excitation signal, the second emitted signal being provided by an excimer component produced in the sensing element from the monomeric indicator component(s) and being dependent on the concentration of the analyte in the medium to a greater extent than the first emitted signal or signals.

Abstract: A sensor for measuring the concentration of an analyte in a medium is disclosed. In one embodiment, the sensor comprises a sensing element including a matrix material and, covalently bonded thereto, one or more monomeric indicator components each of which is capable of providing a first emitted signal of a given wavelength in response to being exposed to an excitation signal. The sensing element is capable of providing a second emitted signal having a longer wavelength than the first emitted signal or signals in response to being exposed to the excitation signal, the second emitted signal being provided by an excimer component produced in the sensing element from the monomeric indicator component(s) and being dependent on the concentration of the analyte in the medium to a greater extent than the first emitted signal or signals.

Abstract: A composition of matter useful in a sensor for sensing the concentration of an ionic component in a medium is disclosed. This composition comprises a first material which includes a sensing component in an amount effective to provide a signal which varies as the concentration of the ionic component in the medium varies, and a first matrix material which is permeable to the ionic component; and a second material which includes a second matrix material which is permeable to the ionic component, and an opaque agent in an amount sufficient to render the second material effectively opaque. The first material matrix and the second matrix material are covalently bonded together. Sensing apparatus including such composition of matter and methods for making and using such composition of matter are also disclosed.

Abstract: A triarylsulfonium salt is prepared in high yield and high purity by a two-step process involving a aryl Grignard reagent reacted with a diarylsulfoxide in a solvent which is a mixture of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, followed by a second step which is metathesis with ZMF.sub.6, where Z is a metal or metal-like anion, and M is antimony, arsenic or phosphorus, preferably employing an ammonium salt and carried out in a non-aqueous solvent.