The F.R.I. recording flame methanometer model A

Abstract

The sensing element of the methanometer is a small hydrogen flame which burns in air at the tip of a metal jet. The electrical resistance of the hydrogen flame is extremely high and is decreased when an organic substance burns in it. The decrease in resistance is due to ion formation. The resistance of the flame is measured by making the metal jet an electrode and placing a second insulated electrode in a suitable position above the flame. Complete ion collection by the upper electrode requires that the positive and negative electrical charge carries formed in the flame be separated as soon as they are formed so that recombination cannot occur.