| abstract |
A composition is disclosed for determining the ionic strength or specific gravity of an aqueous test sample, the composition comprising a strongly acidic or strongly basic polyelectrolyte, a buffer substance capable of providing a pH of about 5.5, and an indicator means capable of producing a detectable response to ion exchange between the polyelectrolyte and the sample. The test device comprises a carrier matrix incorporated with the test composition, and the method for its use comprises contacting an aqueous test sample with the device and observing a detectable response. |