The properties and applications of amperometric gas sensors

The properties and applications of amperometric gas sensors are reviewed. An introductory discussion of the general mechanism of electrochemical gas reactions and an outline of the construction of amperometric gas sensors is presented. The performance of sensors and the relationship of the sensor's performance to the materials of construction and sensor components are described. The analytical characteristics of a sensor such as sensitivity, selectivity, response time and noise are intimately related to the materials chosen for membranes, conductive electrolytes, and active electrocatalysts, as well as the choice of effective operating conditions. The applications of amperometric gas sensors to specific analytical problems are discussed in the context of required performance. Finally, this article points out technical gaps and the future direction of amperometric gas sensor research including some potential applications. References that are relevant to the field of amperometric gas sensors are summarized in a table which contains the author's name, the electrochemical reaction, and an exemplary application.