Polarographic Electrochemical Sensor

The polarographic sensor uses a thermistor, KCl electrolyte, membrane, silver anode, and gold or
platinum cathode. The thermistor is a temperature-sensitive resistor that is used as an input in the
analyzer electronics to compensate for varying temperature conditions (of the temperature versus
oxygen saturation relationship) and to ensure accurate dissolved oxygen readings.
The KCl electrolyte provides a path for the current to flow that is generated by the reaction of oxygen
molecules on the cathode. The membrane is placed over the tip of the sensor and serves to contain the
electrolyte and provide even diffusion of the oxygen molecules to the cathode. The thickness of the
membrane affects the time response of the sensor.
For example, the thicker the membrane the slower the response time of the sensor to oxygen
molecules diffused across the membrane. However, thicker membranes are sturdier and hold up better
to process conditions that have abrasive properties.
The anode and the cathode have a polarizing voltage applied to them from the analyzer electronics.
When the oxygen molecules diffuse across the membrane and come into contact with the cathode, an
electrical current flows from the cathode to the anode in proportion the amount of dissolved oxygen in
the process. The analyzer electronics sense the flow of electrical current and produce a direct output
reading of dissolved oxygen expressed in percent saturation or milligrams per liter (mg/L).

Galvanic Electrochemical Sensor

The galvanic sensor uses the same components, however, KOH electrolyte is typically used. The anode
is generally formed of lead and the cathode is made of silver, gold or platinum. When the oxygen
molecules diffuse across the membrane type sensor, they react with the surface of the cathode and an
electrical current is produced without the use of a polarizing voltage applied to the cathode and
anode. Again, the analyzer electronics compensate for temperature and produce a direct reading
output.
All of these items, the anode, cathode, electrolyte, and temperature sensor are contained inside a
single dissolved oxygen probe. The electronics module is separated from the dissolved oxygen probe,
is usually remotely mounted, and can be connected to a automated control system. The dissolved
oxygen probe and electronic module compose the dissolved oxygen analyzer. The dissolved oxygen
analyzer uses sensitive input electronics and a microprocessor to process all of the input signals and
output a signal proportional to the final dissolved oxygen concentration. The following figure displays
a generic electrochemical dissolved oxygen analyzer.