Amperometric Detection of Arsine Gas

Arsine (AsH3) is a very toxic gas that is encountered in the semiconductor, metal refining andother industries. Complex ventilators, scrubbers, and detectors are needed to control the gas whereverit is used. We will investigate the detection of arsine gas in real time using an electrochemical sensor,as well as the potential for using electrochemical sensor, as well as the potential for using electrochemi-cal reactors for an electrochemical sensors, as well as the potential for using electrochemical reactorsfor oxidizing arsine in exhaust air streams. Alkylated arsines are known to react on gold workingelectrodes with great sensitivity. We will determine whether inorganic arsine can be detected in anamperometric gas sensor system. The sensitivity and selectivity will be measured. If necessary,auxiliary systems such as automatic baseline correction and absorptive preconcentration may be usedto improve the sensitivity. We will investigate whether the miniature cell used for sensing arsines canbe scaled up to reactor sizes in order to scrub arsines from workplace air.