Gas ovens may soon be equipped with a methane detector that sounds an alarm
well before a gas leak reaches explosive levels. The battery-powered sensor was
developed in France by engineers at the Atomic Energy Commission and the
National Institute of Industrial Environment and Risks. It contains a
platinum-coated filament that is heated intermittently to 800 °C for several
milliseconds. At this temperature platinum catalyses the combustion of methane,
which heats up the filament still further and triggers an alarm.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Environment
Galapagos corals suggest climate change drives stronger El Niños
News
Life
Astonishing whale feeding frenzy seen off the eastern coast of Greenland
News
Environment
Octopuses released into Adriatic Sea to tackle invasive crabs
News
Technology
Driving data can predict crash black spots before accidents happen
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles