A NOVEL ACOUSTIC SENSING SYSTEM FOR ONLINE HYDROGEN MEASUREMENTS

A fast and relatively simple sensing system for hydrogen-concentration determination in gas mixtures has been developed. The sensor is based on sound-velocity measurements subsequent to short-pulse irradiation of a sensitizer; as a result, the sensing system is wavelength-indepen dent and can be applied using any available short-pulse laser or pulse d microwave generator. The operation characteristics of the sensor are demonstrated using air/hydrogen mixtures as an example. Sources of er ror and the accuracy of the technique are discussed. The fast response time of the system renders it particularly suitable for on-line measu rements.