Apparatus and method for detecting carbon monoxide, organic components and low alcohols contained in a reaction gas containing hydrogen

摘要

The apparatus or method of the present invention measures carbon monoxide contained in a reaction gas filled with hydrogen with high accuracy, and also measures low alcohol or other organic components contained in the reaction gas. The carbon monoxide sensor 1 includes an electrolytic film 10, a pair of electrodes 12, 14 arranged across the electrolyte membrane 10 to form a sandwich structure, a pair of metal plates 16 as well as a sandwich structure. 18, and a pair of holders 20 and 22 for supporting it, and an insulating member 24 for connecting the holders 20 and 22 to each other. The gas outlet tube 28 is combined with one holder 20, and gaseous fuel is provided to the electrode 12 through the gas outlet tube 28. The electrode 14 supported by the other holder 22 is exposed to the atmosphere. The resistor 34 is connected to the detection terminals 20T, 22T of the holders 20, 22, and the potential difference between the two terminals of the resistor 34 is measured by the voltmeter 32. The voltmeter 32 outputs a signal indicating the measured potential difference to the external control system. The control system determines the extent of poisoning and the concentration of carbon monoxide based on the signal indicative of the measured potential difference.