YSZ-Based Electrochemical Gas Sensors for the Detection of Explosives

Abstract

A zirconia-based mixed potential sensor utilizing dense lanthanum chromite and Pt electrodes and porous YSZ electrolyte was used in an alternating HC mode (unbiased) and total NOx mode (50 nA bias current applied) to detect the HC and NOx deflagration remnants of a nitroglycerin/nitrocellulose propellant (Bullseye{trade mark, serif}), ANFO (ammonium nitrate and fuel oil), blackpowder, and urea (a common, high nitrogen content fertilizer.) Unique HC and NOx sensor responses taken together with sufficient sensitivity to detect microgram quantities of Bullseye{trade mark, serif} - both directly and via capture of trace residue by swiping contaminated surfaces- suggest that detection and discrimination of HE using zirconia-based mixed potentials is possible.