How does carbon monoxide sensor work?

Carbon monoxide (CO) sensors are devices designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide gas in the air. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can be toxic in high concentrations. CO sensors are crucial for detecting and alerting individuals to the presence of this dangerous gas, particularly in environments where combustion processes occur, such as homes, factories, and vehicles.

There are a few different technologies used in carbon monoxide sensors, but the most common type is based on electrochemical principles. Here's a simplified explanation of how electrochemical carbon monoxide sensors work:

1. Electrochemical Cell: The sensor contains an electrochemical cell consisting of three main components: a working electrode, a reference electrode, and an electrolyte. The working electrode is coated with a catalyst that facilitates the reaction between carbon monoxide and oxygen.

2. Gas Diffusion: Carbon monoxide from the surrounding air diffuses through a gas-permeable membrane or porous material, reaching the working electrode's surface.

3. Chemical Reaction: At the working electrode's surface, a chemical reaction occurs between the carbon monoxide and oxygen. This reaction generates an electric current proportional to the concentration of carbon monoxide present.

4. Ion Movement: During the chemical reaction, ions are formed and move through the electrolyte between the working electrode and the reference electrode. This ion movement generates an electrical signal that is proportional to the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air.

5. Signal Processing and Output: The electrical signal is processed by the sensor's electronics. The sensor then converts this signal into a readable output, such as a voltage, current, or digital signal.

6. Calibration and Compensation: Carbon monoxide sensors need to be calibrated to ensure accurate measurements. Calibration involves exposing the sensor to known concentrations of carbon monoxide to establish a linear relationship between the sensor's output and the actual concentration of CO. Some sensors also incorporate compensation algorithms to account for factors like temperature and humidity, which can affect the sensor's performance.

7. Alarm Activation: In many applications, the sensor is integrated into a system that triggers an alarm when carbon monoxide concentrations exceed a certain threshold. This alert provides occupants with early warning and the opportunity to evacuate or address the source of the carbon monoxide.

CO measurement instruments

Portable meters which display CO concentration down to a few ppm, more sensitive than home safety CO detectors and correspondingly much more expensive, are used by industrial hygienists and first responders, and for maintenance and tracing a CO leak. These devices measure low levels of CO in seconds, rather than the minutes or hours of residential alarms. Like other test equipment, professional CO meters must be tested and recalibrated periodically.