Solid state electrochemical hydrogen sensor for aluminium and aluminium alloy melts

摘要

The presence of dissolved hydrogen in molten aluminium and its alloys has a critical impact on the quality of cast aluminium components. The quantitative analysis of hydrogen in these melts is therefore of major importance in the aluminium industry. Research work conducted at the University of Cambridge and subsequent development work performed in conjunction with an industrial partner, have resulted in a novel, and now commercialised, electrochemical hydrogen sensor for aluminium melts. The sensor operates in the potentiostatic mode and relies on a proton-conducting solid electrolyte and a metal/hydrogen-based solid reference electrode. This article summarises the main steps of the underlying research and development programme, covering the actual gas sensor, test measurements in gas phases under laboratory conditions, the probe for molten metal application, and test measurements in aluminium melts under industrial conditions.