An Evaluation of Low-Cost Carbon Monoxide Indicators

摘要

The 'Detector' reacts to provide color warning to indicate the presence of minute concentrations of carbon monoxide in an atmosphere contaminated with engine exhaust gases. Upon continuous exposure to carbon monoxide, the sensitized spot on the 'Detector' will turn darker at a rate dependent upon the concentration of carbon monoxide and humidity of the surrounding atmosphere. The water vapor present in the atmosphere retards 'Detector' reaction to carbon monoxide, particularly under the extended exposure periods required to indicate low concentrations. The consistency of response when the 'Detector' was exposed to carbon monoxide was excellent under a given set of conditions. Regeneration and hence, reuse of the 'Detector' following reaction to carbon monoxide was limited by critical time periods of exposure and/or critical intensities of reaction. Continuous exposure of the 'Detector' to traces of carbon monoxide will result in overexposure and loss of effectiveness within one to five hours time. The 'Detector' will provide effective monitoring in the cabin for periods up to 30 days, provided it does not come in contact with traces of carbon monoxide on a prolonged basis. Although the 'Detector' cannot be used to measure exact concentrations of carbon monoxide, it may be utilized to estimate the presence of SAFE, MARGINAL or DANGEROUS concentrations when used in conjunction with the instruction card incorporating a color scale developed from the results of testing reported herein. The sensitivity of the 'NO-CO' Indicator was not adequate for use of this indicator in general aviation aircraft. (Author)