Alphasense 3SP_CO_1000 Electrochemical Carbon Monoxide (CO) Sensor
| Brand | Alphasense (UK) |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Model | 3SP_CO_1000 |
| Measurement Range | 0–1000 ppm |
| Overload Capacity | 5000 ppm |
| Response Time (t₉₀) | <30 s |
| Dimensions | 20 × 20 × 4.9 mm |
| Sensitivity | ~4.75 ± 2.75 nA/ppm at 3 mV bias |
| Operating Temperature | −20 °C to +50 °C |
| Long-Term Stability | <2 % signal drift per year |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (unopened, refrigerated) |
Overview
The Alphasense 3SP_CO_1000 is a high-performance, three-electrode electrochemical gas sensor engineered for the selective and stable detection of carbon monoxide (CO) in ambient air. Based on amperometric transduction, it operates via controlled-potential electrolysis at the working electrode, where CO undergoes oxidation in the presence of an acidified electrolyte and catalytic electrode surface. The resulting current is linearly proportional to CO concentration within its specified range (0–1000 ppm), enabling precise quantification with high signal-to-noise ratio and low cross-sensitivity to common interferents such as hydrogen, ethanol, and nitrogen dioxide. Designed for integration into fixed and portable monitoring platforms, the 3SP_CO_1000 delivers industry-leading long-term stability (<2 % annual signal drift), compact form factor (20 × 20 × 4.9 mm), and robust performance across temperature gradients (−20 °C to +50 °C). Its compliance with RoHS directives ensures environmental safety and regulatory alignment for global deployment.
Key Features
- Three-electrode electrochemical architecture for enhanced baseline stability and reduced zero drift
- Optimized catalyst formulation minimizing interference from H₂, NO₂, and VOCs under typical indoor/outdoor conditions
- Fast t₉₀ response time of less than 30 seconds—critical for real-time alarm triggering and dynamic ventilation control
- Low-power operation compatible with battery-powered instrumentation and IoT-enabled edge nodes
- Factory-calibrated with NIST-traceable reference gases; supports user field calibration using certified span gas
- Integrated thermal compensation circuitry ensuring consistent sensitivity across operational temperature ranges
- 24-month shelf life when stored refrigerated (2–8 °C) in original sealed packaging
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 3SP_CO_1000 is validated for continuous measurement of CO in clean, non-condensing ambient air matrices—including residential, commercial, industrial, vehicular, and marine environments. It is not intended for use in corrosive, high-humidity (>95 % RH), or particulate-laden gas streams without appropriate filtration (e.g., hydrophobic membrane and activated charcoal pre-filter). The sensor meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements and conforms to IEC 60079-29-1:2016 for gas detection performance specifications. While not intrinsically safe on its own, it is routinely integrated into ATEX- and UL-listed analyzers meeting Class I, Division 1/Zone 1 hazardous area requirements when paired with certified signal conditioning electronics.
Software & Data Management
The 3SP_CO_1000 outputs a linear analog current signal (nA range), typically conditioned via transimpedance amplification to generate a calibrated voltage output (e.g., 0–2 V or 4–20 mA). When interfaced with Alphasense’s proprietary evaluation boards (e.g., B4C or EVA-3), users gain access to digital diagnostics including temperature-compensated concentration output, sensor health status (e.g., electrolyte depletion flag), and raw electrode currents via UART or I²C. Firmware-supported features include automatic baseline correction algorithms, configurable alarm thresholds, and audit-ready logging compliant with GLP principles. For regulated applications (e.g., workplace exposure monitoring per OSHA PEL or WHO IAQ guidelines), data acquisition systems may be configured to meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements through electronic signature and audit trail modules.
Applications
- Indoor air quality (IAQ) monitors for smart buildings and HVAC demand-controlled ventilation (DCV)
- Portable personal exposure meters used by occupational hygienists and industrial safety officers
- Fixed-site ambient air monitoring networks aligned with EPA Method TO-11A and EU Directive 2008/50/EC
- Recreational vehicle (RV) and marine cabin CO warning systems meeting UL 2034 and EN 50291 standards
- Fire detection and combustion efficiency analysis in boiler rooms and generator enclosures
- Integration into multi-gas handheld detectors for confined space entry and emergency response
FAQ
What is the recommended operating humidity range for the 3SP_CO_1000?
The sensor is rated for continuous operation at 15–90 % RH (non-condensing); prolonged exposure above 95 % RH may accelerate electrolyte loss and reduce service life.
Can the 3SP_CO_1000 be exposed to high CO concentrations without permanent damage?
It withstands short-term overexposure up to 5000 ppm; however, sustained exposure >2000 ppm may cause temporary saturation and require extended recovery time (>2 hours) before returning to baseline accuracy.
Is factory calibration traceable to international standards?
Yes—each sensor is calibrated against NIST-traceable CO standard gases (±2 % uncertainty) in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited procedures.
How often should field calibration be performed?
For critical safety applications, quarterly calibration is recommended; for general IAQ monitoring, semi-annual verification suffices—always following manufacturer-recommended zero/span protocol.
Does the sensor require a warm-up period before stable readings?
A 24-hour stabilization period is advised after initial power-on or storage; thereafter, stable operation is achieved within 5 minutes of ambient equilibration.
