Photoacoustic CO2-Sensor for Automotive Applications

We present a field-tested miniaturized spectroscopic CO2 sensor which is based on the photoacoustic effect. The sensor is developed for automotive applications and considers the requirements for the usage in vehicles. The sensor measures two measurement ranges simultaneously: The monitoring of the indoor air quality and the detection of possible leakages of the coolant in CO2 air-conditioning systems. The sensor consists of a miniaturized innovative photoacoustic sensor unit with integrated electronics. The sensor was characterized in detail in laboratory and the capability for automotive applications was proven in field measurements in a test car. Furthermore the potential for market entry is discussed.