Gas Sensor with Electroacoustically Coupled Resonator

Abstract A new configuration for a gas sensor is demonstrated. The configuration consists of an electroacoustic element coupled to an acoustic resonator, such as Kundt’s tube, exhibiting a resonance frequency that is related to the velocity of sound, which, in turn, is a function of the molecular mass of the gas within the resonator. Electrical impedance measurements were performed, whereby a resonance peak attributable to the resonator was identified. Contributing effects to the quality factor, Q, of the resonance, was analyzed. Predictable shifts of the resonance frequency were observed when adding CO2 and He to air, and when varying the resonator length. Linearity within the experimental accuracy was confirmed. The new sensor configuration offers the potential advantages of smaller size, improved dynamic response, and lower cost.