Multi-electrode zirconia electrolyte amperometric sensors

The concept of multi-component gas sensors based on stabilized zirconia amperometric cells has been proposed and tested using cells with two working electrodes. Variations of the cell structure, geometric parameters, materials of working electrodes and working regimes are carried out for optimal adaptation to the particular gas analytic application. Experiments have been conducted in gas mixtures containing nitrogen, oxygen, nitrogen oxide and some combustible gases. Optimization of cell design and working parameters has had a result in a good separation of signals from the measured gas components at the particular electrode. Cross-effects from different electrochemically active gas components have been studied as well. These effects are negligible in measurement of oxygen and combustible components. Cross-effects from H2O and CO2 have been found at large potential difference applied to the working electrodes. These effects are eliminated by optimal selection of electrode potentials and temperatures.