Conventional electrodes are normally single junction. These electrodes have only a single junction which serves to put the reference electrode system in contact with the sample. Under adverse conditions e.g., high pressure, high temperature, highly acidic or alkaline solutions etc., the positive flow of the electrolyte through the junction is often reversed resulting in the ingress of sample solution into the reference compartment. If this is left unchecked, the reference electrode ultimately is contaminated, leading to complete electrode failure.
Double junction system, as the name implies, has two junctions, only one of which is in contact with the sample. Under adverse conditions, the same tendency of sample ingress is evident. However, as the reference electrode system is separated physically from the intermediate electrolyte area, the contamination of the electrode is minimized. This leads to long electrode life. The chances of recovery are also higher if proper maintenance procedures are taken.