Alphasense has launched a new sensor for the measurement of VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds). The new p-type Metal Oxide sensor is a broadband total VOC detector with a range of 0 to 100 ppm (isobutylene) and 10-50 ppb detection limit, depending on the VOC. "This new class of metal oxide sensor will complement our existing range, which also includes PIDs, offering a lower cost alternative that is unaffected by humidity and has low drift," comments Alphasense Director Arthur Burnley.

The new VOC sensor will be of particular interest to manufacturers and developers of instruments and monitoring systems for applications such as process monitoring, occupational safety, leak detection and environmental monitoring. Typical VOCs measured by the sensor include solvents, sterilants and petrochemicals.

Explaining the reasons for offering a variety of VOC monitoring technologies, Arthur says: "There are many factors affecting the choice of VOC sensor. These include: target gases, measurement range, sensitivity, power requirement, over gas limit, environmental conditions, response factors, possible interferences and of course, budget. Consequently, there is no one sensor that meets all needs, so we have developed different technologies and different variants for each technology, so that customers can choose the sensor that best meets their requirements.

"However, there is one sensor requirement that is common to all customers, and that is reliability; which is why Alphasense invests heavily in product development and a rigorous automated test and validation system. As a consequence, we are able to boast the lowest warranty returns in the industry."

Full technical specifications for the new p-type Metal Oxide VOC sensor are available from www.aplphasense.com in addition to detailed information on the company's other sensors.

About Alphasense

Based in the UK, Alphasense is a totally independent gas sensor development and manufacturing company founded in response to a demand from gas detection equipment manufacturers for better quality gas sensors and a higher level of after-sales support.

 The company's technologies include Electrochemical, Catalytic and Optical (including NDIR & PID Semiconductor / metal oxide). Driven by customer demand, new technologies are continually explored and developed.

 Alphasense aims to deliver defect-free product on-time, every-time, achieving the lowest warranty returns in the industry through continual improvement and quality-focused development.

 With access to some of the best technical and academic expertise available, Alphasense works closely with universities and research establishments worldwide, and the company's strong re-investment policy maximises the benefits of this privileged position.

Contact details:
Alphasense Ltd
Sensor Technology House
300 Avenue West
Skyline 120, Great Notley
Essex CM77 7AA
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 1376 556 700
Fax: +44 (0) 1376 335 899
Email: sensors@alphasense.com
www.alphasense.com