What types of sensors are commonly used in Portable Multi-gas Detectors?

Portable multi-gas detectors are versatile devices designed to monitor and detect the presence of multiple gases simultaneously in various environments. These detectors typically utilize a combination of sensors, each specifically designed to detect a particular type of gas. The most common types of sensors found in portable multi-gas detectors include:

 

Catalytic Bead Sensors (LEL):

Detection: Combustible Gases (e.g., methane, propane).
Principle: The sensor measures the heat generated by the combustion of gases in the presence of a catalyst.
Electrochemical Sensors:

Detection: Toxic gases (e.g., carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide) and oxygen.
Principle: Electrochemical reactions generate a current proportional to the concentration of the target gas. Different sensors are used for different gases.
Infrared (IR) Sensors:

Detection: Carbon dioxide (CO2) and some hydrocarbons.
Principle: Measures the absorption of infrared light by the target gas. The amount of absorbed light is proportional to the gas concentration.
Photoionization Detectors (PID):

Detection: Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gases with ionization potentials.
Principle: Uses ultraviolet (UV) light to ionize gas molecules, and the resulting ion current is measured to determine gas concentration.
Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) Sensors:

Detection: Combustible gases and some VOCs.
Principle: Changes in electrical conductivity of a metal oxide semiconductor when exposed to target gases.
Solid-State Sensors:

Detection: Various gases, including methane, propane, and carbon monoxide.
Principle: Changes in electrical conductivity or other electrical properties of solid-state materials in the presence of specific gases.
Thermal Conductivity Sensors:

Detection: Gases such as helium, hydrogen, and certain combustible gases.
Principle: Measures the ability of a gas to conduct heat. Changes in thermal conductivity are proportional to gas concentration.
Semiconductor Sensors:

Detection: Various gases, including hydrogen and certain combustible gases.
Principle: Changes in electrical conductivity of semiconductor materials when exposed to specific gases.
PID with Multiple Lamps:

Detection: Extends the range of VOC detection by using multiple lamps with different ionization potentials.

Portable multi-gas detectors often combine two or more of these sensor types to provide comprehensive coverage for a wide range of hazardous gases. The selection of sensors depends on the specific application, the types of gases present in the environment, and the required level of sensitivity. It’s important to note that sensors may have different detection limits, response times, and cross-sensitivity to other gases, and these factors should be considered when choosing a portable multi-gas detector for a particular use case. Regular calibration and maintenance are also essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the sensors over time.