How Does an Electrochemical NH3 Gas Sensor Work?

The MQ-E3-NH3 uses a constant-potential electrochemical sensing principle. When ammonia gas enters the sensor through the diffusion membrane, an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs inside the sensor, generating an electrical current.

The output current is directly proportional to the ammonia concentration, allowing the monitoring circuit to accurately calculate NH₃ levels in real time. Compared with semiconductor sensing technologies, electrochemical sensors offer:

• Higher measurement accuracy

• Better linear output

• Excellent selectivity

• Lower power consumption

• Faster response to gas concentration changes

Key Features of the MQ-E3-NH3 Ammonia Sensor

High Sensitivity and Accuracy

The sensor detects ammonia concentrations from 0–100 ppm, with a maximum measurable concentration of 200 ppm and a resolution of 0.5 ppm, making it suitable for detecting even low-level ammonia leakage.

Fast Response

A T90 response time of ≤60 seconds enables rapid detection of ammonia leaks, helping safety systems respond quickly.

Low Power Consumption

The electrochemical sensing technology requires very little operating power, making it suitable for portable gas detectors, battery-powered instruments, and wireless monitoring devices.

Excellent Stability

The sensor offers:

• Good repeatability

• Wide linear measurement range

• Strong anti-interference capability

• Stable long-term performance

These characteristics reduce calibration frequency and improve equipment reliability.

Long Service Life

Under normal operating conditions (approximately 2 ppm NH₃ exposure), the sensor provides an expected service life of about two years, reducing maintenance costs.

Typical Applications

The MQ-E3-NH3 sensor is suitable for a wide range of industrial and environmental monitoring applications, including:

Industrial Refrigeration Systems

Large cold storage facilities often use ammonia as a refrigerant. Continuous NH₃ monitoring helps detect leaks before dangerous concentrations develop.

Fertilizer Production

Ammonia is a primary raw material in fertilizer manufacturing. Continuous gas monitoring protects workers and production equipment.

Chemical Plants

Chemical processing facilities require reliable ammonia detection to maintain workplace safety and comply with emission regulations.

Livestock and Poultry Farms

High ammonia concentrations negatively affect animal health and worker safety. Continuous monitoring improves ventilation management and animal welfare.

Wastewater Treatment

Biological treatment processes can generate ammonia emissions. Monitoring helps maintain environmental compliance and process efficiency.

Environmental Air Monitoring

The sensor can also be integrated into environmental monitoring instruments for measuring ammonia concentrations in ambient air.

Why Equipment Manufacturers Choose the MQ-E3-NH3

Compared with many conventional ammonia sensing solutions, the MQ-E3-NH3 provides several advantages:

Looking for a Reliable NH3 Gas Sensor Manufacturer?

If you are developing:

• Portable ammonia gas detectors

• Fixed gas detection systems

• Smart environmental monitoring devices

• Industrial safety equipment

• Agricultural monitoring instruments

• Refrigeration leak detectors

the MQ-E3-NH3 Electrochemical Ammonia Gas Sensor offers an excellent combination of high sensitivity, low power consumption, stable performance, and long service life. It is an ideal sensing solution for OEM and ODM gas detection equipment.