Measuring and testing – Gas analysis – Detector detail
Patent
1996-04-22
1997-06-03
Williams, Hezron E.
Measuring and testing
Gas analysis
Detector detail
73 232, 73 2331, 422 83, 422 98, G01N 2700, G01N 3112, G01N 2712
Patent
active
056356285
ABSTRACT:
A method and apparatus for detecting methane in a gas mixture that may contain commonly used solvents including alcohols and acetones is provided which measures a change in electrical resistivity, electrical conductivity or relative permeability caused by the presence of methane gas at a chemically active sensing structure. The apparatus includes two spaced-apart electrodes that are covered with a thin methane-sensitive semi-conductive metal oxide layer. The gas to be tested is heated to a temperature exceeding 740.degree. C. before it contacts the metal oxide layer. Alcohols, acetones and other solvents are oxidized to electrical carbon dioxide and water before they reach the metal oxide layer so that only the less reactive and reducing gas methane reaches the metal oxide layer where it is reduced and increases the conductivity of the metal oxide layer as measured between the two spaced-apart electrodes with an appropriate electrical meter instrument.
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Fleischer Maximilian
Meixner Hans
Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
Wiggins J. David
Williams Hezron E.
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