What gases do Airthings devices detect, and how do VOC sensors work?
Airthings devices are designed to monitor air quality by measuring various parameters, including total volatile organic compounds (tVOC). However, they have specific limitations regarding the detection of certain gases. Below is an overview of their capabilities and the functionality of their VOC sensors.
Overview of Airthings Device Capabilities
Airthings devices are equipped with sensors to measure total VOC levels, providing insights into the presence of volatile organic compounds in the air. These devices do not have sensors for detecting specific gases like ozone (O3), nitrogen oxides (NOx/NO2), or carbon monoxide (CO). Instead, they focus on general air quality monitoring through tVOC readings.
VOC Sensor Technology
The VOC sensors in Airthings devices use metal-oxide MEMS technology to detect a broad range of volatile organic compounds. Here are some key details about the sensor:
Measurement Range: 0–10,000 parts per billion (ppb)
Resolution: 1 ppb
Sensitivity: The sensor can detect various VOCs and some gases, such as ethanol, toluene, benzene, ammonia (NH3), formaldehyde, and acetone. However, it does not isolate or quantify individual chemicals.
The sensor provides a general indication of VOC levels in the environment, which can be useful for identifying trends in air quality.
Gases Not Detected
Airthings devices do not detect the following gases:
Ozone (O3): The devices lack sensors for ozone and cannot measure its levels directly.
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx/NO2): These gases are not detected by the VOC sensor, and their presence will not influence VOC readings.
Carbon Monoxide (CO): The VOC sensor does not respond to carbon monoxide, and high CO levels will not trigger elevated VOC readings.
Limitations of VOC Sensors
While the VOC sensor provides valuable information about total VOC levels, it is important to note the following limitations:
No Specific Gas Detection: The sensor does not differentiate between individual VOCs or gases. It provides a cumulative reading of all detected compounds.
Not Health-Critical: Airthings devices are not designed for health-critical detection of specific gases like CO or NO2. Users requiring precise measurements of these gases should consider specialized equipment.
Conclusion
Airthings devices are effective tools for monitoring general air quality through tVOC readings. However, they are not equipped to detect specific gases such as ozone, nitrogen oxides, or carbon monoxide. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of the VOC sensor can help users make informed decisions about their air quality monitoring needs. For more information on Airthings devices and their features, please refer to the official documentation or contact customer support.