Solid-state potentiometric gas sensors—current status and future trends

The development of potentiometric sensors for monitoring environmental gases has become a well-established direction in sensor technology. Various types of potentiometric sensors employing solid electrolytes for in situ measurements of such gases as oxygen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, and hydrocarbons are reviewed. Particular concern was given to the CO2 potentiometric sensor which is an example of successful commercial application. The construction details, working mechanism, and performance of different types of potentiometric gas sensors are given. Special emphasis is given for the mixed-potential electrodes, which seems to be the principal direction for the future research and development of the sensor science and technology. Additionally, the future use of potentiometric sensors for the detection of other environmental gases is discussed.