Ethanol Sensor
(PS-2194)
Included Parts
Amplifier
Probe
PTFE (Teflon Plumber’s) tape for membrane
replacement (not pictured)
Additional Parts Required
• PASPORT-compatible interface
• PASCO Data Collection Software
Replacement Parts
• See Technical Support
Quick Start
1. Connect the amplifier to your PASPORT-compatible
interface.
2. Connect the probe to the amplifier.
3. If you are using a computer, connect the PASPORT
interface to it and start the PASCO Data Collection
Software.
4. Ensure that the membrane is installed and intact. There
should be no tears or discoloration.
5. Place the end of the probe in the gas above a solution
containing less than 3% ethanol.
6. Begin recording data in the software.
The probe stabilizes after about 10 minutes of warm-up time.
Introduction
The Ethanol Sensor measures the concentration of ethanol in a
gas or indirectly in a liquid. The sensor’s probe contains a
material whose resistance decreases in the presence of ethanol.
The sensor translates this resistance into an ethanol
concentration measurement, which is recorded and displayed by
the connected computer or datalogger. The Ethanol Sensor is
well-suited for continuous recording and discrete measurements.
Precautions
• Do not expose the probe to 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 teflon tape membrane is installed and intact
before using the probe. The membrane prevents the
sensing element from getting wet. If the sensing element
accidentally gets wet, wipe it gently with a soft cloth or
lightly damp paper towel and dry it quickly. Note that the
probe may be degraded or destroyed.
• 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.
Connecting the Parts
1. Plug the amplifier’s PASPORT connector into any port of a
PASPORT-compatible interface.
2. Connect the probe to the amplifier.
Figure 1. Connecting the probe and interface
3. If you are using a computer, connect the PASPORT-
compatible interface to it and start the PASCO Data
Collection Software.
Warm-up
The probe contains a heating element. After connecting the
sensor to a powered PASPORT-compatible interface, wait about
10 minutes for the sensor’s temperature to stabilize. Students
should start the sensor before setting up the lab to ensure that
its temperature has stabilized in time for data collection.
If the temperature of the gas surrounding the probe changes, the
probe will need some time to stabilize again.
The sensitivity of the probe changes with temperature. Make
measurements at a constant temperature after the probe
temperature has stabilized.
Collecting Data
1. Ensure that the membrane is installed and intact. There
should be no tears or discoloration.
2. Place the end of the probe just above a solution, or in a
gas, containing less than 3% ethanol.
3. Start data recording.
NOTE: For more information on data collection
using PASCO software, see the PASCO
Capstone or SPARKvue online help.
Product Guide | 012-10287D
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