Carbon Monoxide Detectors

     Many carbon monoxide detectors sense the colorless, odorless gas by oxidizing it in the presence of a platinum oxide catalyst and measuring the degree of oxidation. The degree of oxidation is measured by monitoring temperature changes.

PtO + CO -> CO₂ + Pt + energy
Oxidation Reaction raises temperature

1/2 O₂ + Pt -> PtO
Platinum Oxide catalyst regeneration

     As can be seen by the reactions, the platinum oxide catalyst regenerates itself in the presence of oxygen which eliminates the need for replacing the catalyst (the detector or an insert). Please be advised that not all detectors utilize this technology and MUST BE REPLACED. You should consult the user's manual of your detector to find out how often your model should be replaced.

     Carbon monoxide is very dangerous and should be taken seriously, particulary if you heat your home with fuel oil or coal. CO is produced by the incomplete combustion of organic hydrocarbon fuels. It binds irreversibly with hemoglobin in the blood (by way of the lungs). This, in turn, will not allow oxygen to bind to the blood and results in a quick suffocation of the brain.