Abstract: Method and apparatus for detecting and/or determining ethanol in fluid samples using a substantially non-porous barrier of un-plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) interposed between the sample to be analyzed and a detecting means responsive to ethanol. The ethanol diffuses through the barrier membrane and then is measured at the detecting means. The PVC membrane can be made by solvent casting, and is usually 10 to 40 um thick. Measurement can be by any known means, but preferably electrochemically (amperometrically). The PVC membrane may be part of a multiple membrane system. The method and sensor are useful for analyzing alcoholic liquors or beverages (for example beer, wine and other fermentation products), in their final form or at intermediate stages of their manufacture or storage, and also for the monitoring of a wide range of process, waste and effluent liquids.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting ethanol content of a sample wherein a membrane barrier comprising unplasticized PVC is interposed between the sample and detecting means.

Abstract: Method and electrode assemblies for using or installing an electrode (especially enzyme electrode) in vivo, in which a protecting medium is introduced at the installation site to suppress adverse effects on the electrode's output. The medium is preferably an isotonic solution (e.g. saline) and/or a buffer solution and/or an anti-coagulant, and may be of increased viscosity (e.g. a gel, or hydrogel), and may be coated on the electrode assembly. The preferred electrode assembly is a needle within a trocar cannula, preferably with the needle tip set back to form a recess to contain gelled medium which can then be fed with liquid medium. The assembly can be made as a sterilized, sealed pack bearing calibration and/or other data relevant to its use, especially in machine-readable form.

Abstract: Method and electrode assemblies for using or installing an electrode (especially enzyme electrode) in vivo, in which a protecting medium is introduced at the installation site to suppress adverse effects on the electrode's output. The medium is preferably an isotonic solution (e.g. saline) and/or a buffer solution and/or an anti-coagulant, and may be of increased viscosity (e.g. a gel or hydrogel), and may be coated on the electrode assembly. The preferred electrode assembly is a needle within a trocar cannula, preferably with the needle tip set back to form a recess to contain gelled medium which can then be fed with liquid medium. The assembly can be made as a sterilised, sealed pack bearing calibration and/or other data relevant to its use, especially in machine-readable form.