Conductivity measurement is widely applied in ultrapure water, industrial process water, and water treatment. However, multiple factors can introduce measurement errors.
Major Error Sources
Electrode Polarization: In high-conductivity solutions, ion concentration changes near the electrode surface cause measurement deviations. Solution: use multi-electrode or inductive conductivity sensors.
Capacitance Effects: In low-conductivity (ultrapure water) measurements, capacitive coupling in cables and electrodes introduces significant errors. Solution: shorten cable length, use shielded cables.
Temperature Influence: Conductivity varies ~2% per °C; temperature compensation is essential.
Fouling: Surface contamination alters the cell constant. Solution: regular cleaning and calibration.