Heavy Hydrocarbon Detection: MPS™ vs. Catalytic Bead Sensors
Catalytic bead (pellistor) gas sensors calibrated to methane can significantly underreport concentrations of heavier flammable hydrocarbons, such as octane, creating potential safety risks in environments where multiple gases may be present.
Watch this side-by-side demonstration to see how NevadaNano’s MPS™ Flammable Gas Sensor accurately detects and classifies octane vapor, while a methane-calibrated, poison-resistant catalytic bead sensor reports a concentration far below the actual level.
Why Heavy Hydrocarbon Detection Accuracy Matters
Catalytic bead sensors are calibrated for a specific gas and may produce inaccurate readings when exposed to other flammable gases. Poison-resistant variants also typically incorporate protective filters that can restrict larger hydrocarbon molecules from reaching the sensing element, further reducing sensitivity to heavy gases.
MPS™ technology automatically classifies flammable gas families and provides accurate %LEL readings across a broad spectrum of hydrocarbons without requiring protective filters or field recalibration. This helps reduce the risk of underreporting hazardous gas concentrations in environments where gas composition may vary.
Learn more about the limitations of catalytic bead gas sensors.
