Produkt-Neuheit

Ammonia (NH₃), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) are significant environmental pollutants with various impacts on air quality, ecosystems, and human health. These gases, though not greenhouse gases, contribute to broader environmental issues, such as air pollution, acid rain, and ecosystem degradation.
Ammonia (NH₃)
Ammonia, while not a greenhouse gas, has serious environmental consequences. It is mainly emitted from agriculture (fertilisers, livestock waste), industrial processes, and combustion sources. Ammonia reacts with sulphur dioxide (SO₂) and NOx to form fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅), which degrades air quality. It is also a cause of soil acidification and disrupts ecosystems by promoting nitrogen-loving plants, reducing biodiversity. Ammonia runoff into water bodies can lead to eutrophication, creating dead zones by depleting oxygen levels, thus harming aquatic life.
Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)

CO and NOx are primarily released from vehicle exhaust, industrial activities, and fossil fuel combustion. They contribute to ground-level ozone formation by reacting under sunlight, leading to harmful smog that degrades air quality and reduces crop yields. CO and NOx also indirectly influence climate change by reducing hydroxyl radicals in the atmosphere, which are necessary to break down methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. Beyond air pollution, both these gases lead to acid rain formation, nitric acid formed by the reaction of NOx with water is a strong acid has a damaging effect on ecosystems, infrastructure, and water bodies. Carbonic acid forms indirectly from the reaction of CO with hydroxyl radicals and water. Although it is a weaker acid, it can still have harmful effects.
NOx also drives eutrophication in water bodies, where excess nutrients trigger harmful algal blooms that deplete oxygen, creating dead zones that threaten aquatic life.

Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S)
Although H₂S has a short atmospheric lifespan and is not a major concern for global warming, it is a significant pollutant in certain industrial and natural environments. It is released during oil refining, gas processing, wastewater treatment, and from natural sources like volcanic eruptions and wetlands. H₂S contributes to acid rain by reacting with water vapor to produce sulphuric acid, which harms ecosystems. In high concentrations, H₂S is toxic to aquatic life by creating hypoxic conditions and can damage soil health by hindering plant growth and disrupting nutrient cycles.

European and UK Regulations on emissions of NH3, CO, NOx and H2S

The release of NH₃, CO, NOx, and H₂S into the atmosphere presents diverse environmental and health risks, including air pollution, acid rain, ecosystem disruption, and negative impacts on water quality. Through effective regulation and mitigation strategies, such as improved agricultural practices, industrial emission controls, and better waste management we can move towards a toxic-free environment. European frameworks and Directives have been in place since 1999 and continue to be updated and added to as follows:

EU

The National Emission Ceilings (NEC) Directive (2016/2284/EU) aligns with and implements the Gothenburg Protocol within the EU, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of air pollutants—specifically acidification, eutrophication, and ground-level ozone. To achieve this, it sets limits on emissions of ammonia (NH₃), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅). Additionally, the NEC Directive encourages reductions in carbon monoxide (CO) emissions across the transport and industrial sectors.
For road transport, CO and NOₓ emissions are also regulated under Euro 6 standards, part of the EU vehicle emission regulations. These standards apply to all new road vehicles, including cars, vans, lorries, and buses. Meanwhile, industrial NOₓ emissions from refineries, large combustion plants, and wastewater treatment facilities fall under the Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), which mandates measures to reduce emissions.
Although there is no single EU regulation dedicated to hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) emissions, several directives help control and limit sulphurous compounds like H₂S. These include the Ambient Air Quality Directive (AAQD), the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED), and the Water Framework Directive (WFD).

UK
Since leaving the EU, the UK has introduced its own National Emissions Ceiling Regulations (NECR), which set targets like those of the EU. Additionally, the UK has established the Environment Act 2021, aimed at mitigating the environmental and health impacts of air pollution. This includes vehicle emissions standards that align closely with the EU’s Euro 6 regulations.
While much of the EU’s environmental framework has been retained, the UK now enforces its own national regulations for controlling H₂S emissions. Laws such as the Environmental Permitting Regulations and the Clean Air Act regulate industrial emissions, requiring businesses to meet specific limits, conduct monitoring, and adopt best practices to reduce pollution.


What is the European Green Deal and Zero Pollution Action Plan and how does this compliment the Gothenburg protocol?

The Gothenburg protocol was first established in 1999, it focuses on reducing specific air pollutants from specific Industrial sectors while the European Green Deal introduced in 2019, is the EU’s strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, promoting sustainable economic growth through investment in green technologies and promotion of a circular economy while reducing environmental damage by cutting GHG emissions. The Zero Pollution Action Plan, 2021, is a key part of the European Green Deal with legally binding targets for 2030 which include cutting air pollution emissions by 25% from transport, industry, and agriculture. It primarily targets major air pollutants like NOx, NO, NH₃, and CO, but hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) is indirectly addressed within the broader scope of industrial emissions and air and water quality standard

Awareness of the harmful effects of gases on the environment has led to stricter regulations that reduce emissions by refining and improving existing processes and practices. It also drives research into more environmentally-friendly processes that can achieve the same or even higher levels of output while minimizing environmental impact.

European funding is available through various EU programs and mechanisms to support the objectives of the European Green Deal and Zero Pollution Action Plan
These include:
InvestEU, a funding program designed to stimulate private investment in green projects and sustainable industries.
Horizon Europe; funding research projects related to climate change, renewable energy, and other green technologies.
European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), manages funding of climate-related projects
LIFE Program (LIFE Programme for the Environment and Climate Action)
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and Emission Trading System (ETS)
Cohesion Fund and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)

Environmental research projects involving gaseous emissions and electrochemical sensors

Any project aimed at acquiring a better understanding of gaseous emissions or reducing gaseous emissions requires reliable, accurate measurement of the gases under consideration. The electrochemical sensor is the best tool for the job.
The FECS electrochemical sensors have exceptional sensitivity and reliability, making them ideal for detecting low concentrations of H₂S, CO, NH₃, and NOx. These sensors deliver rapid, accurate readings even in difficult field conditions, ensuring that subtle changes in pollutant levels are captured in real time. Their robust construction and stability mean they can operate reliably over long periods, with minimal drift or need for frequent recalibration.

The FECS sensors are set apart in their ability to perform in harsh environments while consuming minimal power, making them ideal for remote or continuous monitoring applications where maintenance can be challenging. Moreover, they distinguish themselves from other electrochemical sensors through their high selectivity; designed to minimise cross-interference, these sensors deliver precise measurements that researchers can be confident in.
The integration of FECS technology into monitoring systems has led to advancements in both data accuracy and operational efficiency. Whether deployed in urban settings to track air quality or integrated into larger environmental research projects, FECS sensors provide a blend of durability, performance, and energy efficiency that sets them apart in the field of electrochemical detection.
Examples of research projects which FECS electrochemical sensors are used for
In urban areas and industrial settings, air quality is a constant concern. Researchers deploy electrochemical sensors to track emissions from vehicular exhaust, industrial processes, and combustion sources. The data gathered—ranging from CO and NOx levels to occasional spikes in H₂S—provides valuable insights into pollution patterns, allowing for real-time assessment of air quality and aiding in the development of targeted mitigation strategies.
Water quality research also benefits from these advanced sensors. In aquatic environments, subtle shifts in the levels of ammonia and traces of hydrogen sulphide can signal the onset of contamination events or ecological imbalances. Researchers often integrate these sensors into floating platforms or underwater drones, where continuous monitoring helps in early detection and informs necessary environmental interventions before significant harm occurs.
Industrial and landfill sites present another challenging environment where electrochemical sensors prove their worth. By monitoring H₂S emissions, these sensors help detect leaks and manage gas accumulation, ensuring that both the environment and local communities are protected from harmful exposures. Their ability to deliver real-time data is crucial for maintaining safety and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Agricultural research has also embraced the use of electrochemical sensors, particularly for monitoring ammonia emissions. In livestock operations and fields where fertilisers are used, elevated levels of NH₃ can have both environmental and health implications. Continuous monitoring not only informs better management practices but also contributes to research aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of modern agriculture.
The integration of electrochemical sensors in environmental research projects has opened new avenues for understanding and mitigating pollution. Their real-time monitoring capabilities provide a dynamic picture of environmental conditions, from urban landscapes to remote agricultural fields and industrial complexes.

FECS electrochemical sensor information


Construction and operating principle


The sensor comprises three electrode pins, a resin housing, and a white pre-filter on top. Inside, it contains the electrolyte, electrodes, and filters for the electrochemical reaction. A label around the housing displays the target gas, model number, and serial number.

FECS-series electrochemical gas sensors feature three electrodes: a working electrode, where oxidation or reduction occurs; a counter electrode, which facilitates the opposite reaction; and a reference electrode, which monitors potential changes. During operation, the potentiostat circuit, connected externally, maintains a constant preset potential at the working electrode based on readings from the reference electrode. This ensures a stable potential regardless of voltage drop, allowing a current proportional to gas concentration to flow between the working and counter electrodes. Known as "three-electrode cell" or "controlled potential electrolysis" sensors, they provide excellent gas linearity and output stability.

General features of all FECS sensors
High sensitivity and selectivity

Excellent linearity over the specified measurement range

Stable baseline

Environmentally resilient, capable of maintaining performance across extreme conditions.

No positional sensitivity

Specifics of CO, H2S, NH3, NO2 and NO FECS sensors

FECS40-1000 for the detection of CO
This has a detection range of 0-1000 ppm, output signal of 70 nA/ppm and resolution of 1 ppm.
Cross sensitivity: There is a zero response to the following common interference gases; H2S, NH3, NO2,CO2, SO2 and ETOH (ethanol)
There is a small cross sensitivity to NO and a significant response to H2

FECS50-100 for the detection of H2S
This has a detection range of 0-100 ppm, output signal 700 nA/ppm and resolution of 0.1ppm
Cross sensitivity: There is a zero response to NH3 and CO2 and a very small cross sensitivity to other gases tested, namely NO, NO2, SO2 and ETOH. CO and H2 will impact measurement accuracy if present at relatively high concentrations, above 150 ppm and 350 ppm respectively.

FECS 44-100/200/1000 and 5000 for the detection of NH3

Four sensors are available to optimise the measurement performance within each of four different detection ranges:
0-100 ppm. Output signal 100 nA/ppm and resolution of 1 ppm
0-200 ppm. Output signal of 40 nA/ppm and resolution of 2 ppm
0-1000 ppm. Output signal of 8 nA/ppm and resolution of 10 ppm
0-5000 ppm. Output signal of 4 nA/ppm and resolution of 20 ppm
Cross sensitivity: There is a zero response to the following common interference gases; CO, NO,CO2, H2 and ETOH (ethanol) by all sensors, and a very small response to NO2 in the case of the FECS44-100. The lower concentration FECS-100 and FECS-200 are sensitive to H2S and SO2. The higher concentration FECS-1000 and FECS-5000 are only sensitive to SO2


FECS 42-20 for the detection of NO2
This has a detection range of 0-20 ppm, output signal -600 nA/ppm and resolution of 0.1ppm
Cross sensitivity: There is a zero response to CO, NH3, NO, CO2, H2, SO2 and ETOH, and a very small response to H2S. Note that this sensor will respond to the presence of chlorine.



FECS 41-250 for the detection of NO
This has a detection range of 0-250 ppm, output signal of 400 nA/ppm and resolution of 0.5 ppm
Cross sensitivity: There is a zero response to CO, NH3, CO2,H2,Cl2 and SO2 and a small response to the presence of NO2 and H2S.


Gas Type/ sensor model Concentration Range Output signal resolution T90 Operating temp range Expected life Requires bias voltage
CO/ FECS40-1000 0-1000 ppm 70 nA/ ppm 1 ppm <30s -20-50 °C 2 yrs No
H2S/FECS50-100 0-100 ppm 700 nA/ppm 0.1 ppm <30s -40-50 °C 3 yrs No
NH3/FECS-100 0-100 ppm 100 nA/ppm 1 ppm 60s -30-50 °C >2 yrs No
NH3/FECS-200 0-200 ppm 40 nA/ppm 2 ppm 90s -30-50 °C >2 yrs No
NH3/FECS-1000 0-1000 ppm 8 nA/ppm 10 ppm 120s -30-50 °C >2 yrs No
NH3/FECS-5000 0-5000 ppm 4 nA/ppm 20 ppm 150s -30-50 °C >2 yrs No
NO2/FECS42-20 0-20 ppm -600 nA/ppm 0.1 ppm <25s -20-50 °C >2 yrs No
NO/FECS41-250 0-250 ppm 400 nA/ppm 0.5 ppm <40s -20-50 °C >2 yrs Yes