How to Store and Get the Most From Your pH Buffer Solution

Calibration buffer solutions are essential for keeping your pH meter as accurate as possible. This brief article details some little known facts about pH buffer solutions and provides some exclusive storage tips to ensure your pH buffer solutions work effectively.

3 Facts About Buffer Solution Storage

1. pH buffers have a finite shelf life.
2. The expiration date on the bottle applies to the unopened buffer solution. Standard buffer solutions at Instrument Choice have an expiration of 18 months from the manufacture date on unopened bottles stored at 15-30°
3. The shelf life of an opened bottle is near impossible to determine due to varying environmental conditions and storage conditions. Our scientists recommend no more than 6-12 months for pH 4 and 7 buffers and 3-6 months for pH 10 buffer.

6 Tips to Help You Get the Most From Your PH Buffer Solutions

Figure 1 How to store buffer solution: Write the receipt and the date of opening on the bottle.

1. Write both the date of receipt and the date of opening on the bottle of butter solution. Most bottles will have a space reserved for you to do so.
2. Always keep bottles of buffer solution tightly sealed when not in use.
3. Never put used buffer solutions back into the bottle. Discard the used calibration solution as soon as you have completed your meter calibration.
4. Always store the bottles at the specified temperature range to ensure true shelf life is achieved.
5. Store bottles away from direct sunlight to avoid temperature changes.
6. Ensure your buffer solutions, samples, and rinsing solutions are at the same temperature before calibration. 

Buffer Solutions to Keep Your pH Meter Accurate

Below, our scientists have created a list of the most popular and best-performing buffer solutions. If you can't find the pH buffer standard concentration you require, browse the full range here or contact us for assistance.

Individual Bottles Ideal for single and dual point pH calibrations  pH 4 (250mLand 500mL) pH 7 (250mLand 500mL); and pH 10 (250mLand 500mL).

Packs of Three Bottles Perfect for calibrating the entire pH range  pH Buffer solution kits with pH 4, pH 7, and pH10 calibration solutions in: 250mL bottles: and 500mL bottles

Conclusion

Calibrating your pH meter is critical to ensure it is performing to its highest level of accuracy. Your calibration is only as good as your buffer solution – so it is vital to ensure that your solution is maintained and stored correctly.

For more information or assistance calibrating your pH meter, speak with an Instrument Choice Scientist: Call 1300 737 871 or email customer-service@instrumentchoice.com.au.