Ethanol Sensor – PASPORT

Note:  This is a gas sensor – it should not be submerged into liquids. If exposed to gases with ethanol concentrations above the recommended maximum of 3% the sensor element will be depleted.

Experiment Library

Perform the following experiment and more with the PASPORT Ethanol Sensor.
Visit PASCO’s Experiment Library to view all activities for this product.

Setup

Calibration Technique (see instruction manual)

For accurate measurements, first calibrate the sensor. You will need a solution of 1% ethanol in water. The solution should be at the same temperature as the solutions to be measured.

Calibration data is stored in the sensor’s memory and it persists until the sensor is calibrated again, even if the sensor is unplugged from the interface.

1. Connect the sensor to an interface as described in the manual.
2. Place the probe above the 1% ethanol solution (depending on how it will be used for later measurements).
3. Observe the ethanol concentration reading in software or on the datalogger.
4. Wait until the reading stabilizes.
5. Press and hold the 1% CAL button on the sensor for 4 s.

Immediately after a successful calibration, the sensor’s output reads 1%, and the button is illuminated.

Precautions

Do not expose the probe to a gas containing more than 3% ethanol, including the gas above alcoholic beverages. Higher ethanol concentrations will deplete the sensing element. Note that the gas above a liquid contains about the same concentration of ethanol as the liquid itself.

Ensure that the membrane is installed and intact before immersing the end of the probe. The membrane prevents the sensing element from getting wet. If the sensing element accidentally gets wet, rinse and dry it quickly. Note that the probe may be degraded or destroyed if the membrane is ruptured or compromised.

Do not immerse the probe. The membrane (if it is in good condition) will protect the probe in case of accidental immersion. However, the probe is designed for use in gas only.