MICROMACHINED CONDUCTOMETRIC P(CO2) SENSOR

A novel micromachined conductimetric p(CO2) sensor is proposed. The p( CO2) measurement can be linearised with the theoretical formula: G(th) (mu S)=0.055(mu S cm(-1)) + 1.45(mu S cm(-1))root p(CO2)root(mmHg(-1)) /cell const (cm(-1)). The sensor design and evaluation is described. T he linear behaviour was checked over the physiological ranges of p(CO2 ): 0-80 mmHg. The time response is in the range of 5 s. The dimensions allow its mounting in a French 5 catheter. Its advantage as compared with the traditional Severinghaus device is the simplicity of construc tion. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science S.A.