Precautions when detecting alcohol gas

Introduction: Have You Encountered These Troubles When Detecting Alcohol?

Obviously following the procedure, but the All Gas sensor suddenly outputs a negative signal? After detecting high-concentration alcohol, the sensor can’t return to normal for a long time? In fact, these problems are all related to ignoring the "internal reaction logic of the sensor"! This practical guide today explains the core precautions for detecting alcohol with All Gas sensors, helping you avoid the pitfalls of signal abnormalities and equipment failure!

I. Normal Working Principle of All Gas Sensor for Alcohol Detection

In the standard response state of the All Gas sensor, the process of detecting ethanol (alcohol) gas follows the following logic, and none can be missing:

1. Gas Reaction Path: After ethanol gas enters the sensor, a chemical reaction occurs only on the surface of the SE (sensing electrode) ;

2. Role of Other Electrodes: The CE (counter electrode) and RE (reference electrode) do not come into contact with ethanol gas;

3. Optimal Working Condition: When an "appropriate amount of ethanol gas" enters, it will fully react on the SE working electrode, and the sensor is in the optimal measurement state at this time;

4. Signal Characteristic: The reaction of ethanol on this sensor is a positive reaction , and finally a positive output signal is generated.

II. 2 High-Risk Operations! Directly Cause Sensor Abnormalities

Don’t ignore these two details—they may cause signal confusion at best, or prolong the recovery time at worst:

1. Abnormal Triggers

• Scenario 1: Exposure to high-concentration ethanol gas;

• Scenario 2: Directing pressurized gas towards the sensor’s inlet .

2. Abnormal Consequences

• Incomplete Reaction: When a large amount of ethanol gas enters quickly, the SE working electrode may not fully react within a short period;

• Electrode Contamination: Under pressurized conditions, gas may seep into the RE reference electrode;

• Signal Reversal: Both of the above scenarios will cause the sensor’s output signal to switch from positive to negative .

3. Key Recovery Standard

If the ethanol concentration exceeds 1500 ppm and the sensor is exposed continuously for 2 hours , a recovery period of at least 10 hours is required before the sensor can resume normal measurement functions.

III. Warm Reminder (Must-See for Practical Operation!)

1. Strictly control the ethanol concentration during detection, and avoid long-term exposure to high-concentration gas (above 1500 ppm);

2. Do not direct pressurized gas at the sensor’s inlet to prevent abnormal gas infiltration into the RE reference electrode;

3. If the signal switches to negative, first confirm the exposure concentration and duration, then let the sensor stand for at least 10 hours before retesting—do not start the equipment frequently.

IV. Interaction Time

Have you ever encountered signal abnormalities or slow recovery when using the All Gas sensor to detect alcohol? How did you solve it at that time? Welcome to share your experience in the comment area, or ask questions—we will reply one by one! If you find this useful, remember to like and repost to help more peers avoid detours～