Understanding Breathalysers: The Basics of Alcohol Screening Devices

In an era where road safety has become a paramount concern, breathalysers have emerged as a critical tool in the fight against drunk driving. These devices, which date back to the early 20th century, provide a quick and effective means of measuring blood alcohol content (BAC) from a breath sample, allowing law enforcement and individuals to assess whether someone is over the legal drink-drive limit. 

This blog will delve into how breathalysers work, explore various types, including pocket and professional breathalysers, and discuss the importance of regular breathalyser direct calibration.

What is a Breathalyser?

A breathalyser is an increasingly important device in today’s society. It can quickly and accurately measure the amount of alcohol in a person’s breath and estimate their blood alcohol concentration, which measures the amount of alcohol in their bloodstream. The device’s principle is based on a chemical reaction that occurs when alcohol in the breath is exposed to a chemical sensor.

 

The chemical sensor in the breathalyser produces a colour change or an electrical signal that can be measured. This result can quickly indicate whether a person is under the influence of alcohol and whether they exceed the legal alcohol limits set by local laws. It is widely used by law enforcement officers and in various settings, including hospitals, workplaces, and social events. 

Understanding Breathalysers: The Different Types

  1. Pocket Breathalyser: These compact devices are designed for personal use. A pocket breathalyser is typically smaller and less complex than professional models but is perfect for those who wish to ensure they are safe to drive after consuming alcohol. They are discreet, easy to carry, and usually cost-effective, making them a popular choice for individuals.

  2. Professional Breathalyser: Professional breathalysers are known for their accuracy and reliability and are used by law enforcement and businesses. These devices often feature advanced sensor technology and can provide detailed reports, which is crucial for law enforcement and professional settings where precision is critical.

  3. Digital Breathalyser: With technological advancements, digital breathalysers have become increasingly popular. These devices display results electronically, often through an LCD screen, providing more precise and immediate readings. They are user-friendly and can store previous readings for future reference.

  4. Single-Use Breathalysers: AlcoSense single-use breathalysers are a convenient one-time-use option. These disposable devices are designed to read quickly without needing maintenance or calibration. They are ideal for occasional use, particularly by guests at events or establishments that wish to ensure the safety of their patrons. 

How Do Breathalysers Work?

Breathalysers detect the presence of ethanol in a person’s breath using a fuel cell sensor. This type of sensor is highly responsive to alcohol and less to other substances, reducing the chance of getting false positives.

 

Fuel cell sensors consist of platinum electrodes coated with a catalyst. The ethanol in the breath is oxidised on the surface of the anode electrode, producing acetic acid, protons, and electrons. These electrons flow through the external circuit to the cathode electrode, where they react with oxygen in the air to form water. The protons produced in the reaction remain in the anode chamber and combine with oxygen to form water.

 

When a person breathes into the breathalyser, any ethanol in their breath gets oxidised to acetic acid and water, which generates an electric current. The strength of this current is directly proportional to the concentration of alcohol in the breath. The device then uses this information to estimate the person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Importance of Calibration

Breathalyser direct calibration is not just a routine maintenance task but a crucial step to ensure the accuracy and reliability of readings. Calibration involves adjusting the device to a baseline measurement using a known alcohol standard. This process is the backbone of the breathalyser’s performance, maintaining its sensitivity and specificity, especially for models used in professional contexts. Regular calibration is not just recommended but essential, as it compensates for the natural drift in sensor sensitivity and ensures that the device continues to provide accurate readings over time. 

Choosing the Best Breathalyser

When selecting the best breathalyser for your needs, consider the following factors:

  • Accuracy: Look for devices with high specificity and sensitivity. Professional breathalysers usually offer the best accuracy.

  • Calibration: Check how frequently the device needs calibration and whether the user can do the process quickly or if it requires professional service.

  • Portability: If you need a breathalyser on the go, consider a pocket breathalyser for its compactness and ease of use.

  • Features: Some devices have extra features like memory storage, digital displays, and smartphone connectivity.

Get Accurate Results with Quantum Scientific Breathalyzers

At Quantum Scientific, we understand the critical role that accurate alcohol screening plays in maintaining safety in workplaces, educational institutions, and on the roads. Recent statistics from GARDA underscore the tragic consequences of alcohol impairment, with a significant percentage of vehicle-related fatalities linked to drunk driving- highlighting the importance of effective alcohol screening.

 

Our range of breathalysers, including the Lion Alcometer® series and the Alcoblow®, offers state-of-the-art technology for precise alcohol measurement. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, an employer, or a concerned individual, our devices ensure a quick and accurate assessment.

Choose Quantum Scientific for:
  • Pinpoint Accuracy: Our devices provide reliable readings that you can trust.

  • Defined Usage Capacity: We have the right solution for personal use and large-scale screenings.

  • Routine Maintenance: We ensure your devices remain in top condition with regular maintenance and recalibration services.

  • Periodic Calibration: Each device is backed by rigorous calibration and support to ensure you can trust the results. 

Secure Your Safety with Us

Breathalysers are vital for ensuring road safety by allowing individuals to monitor their alcohol intake and make informed decisions about driving. Quantum Scientific offers a variety of devices, from simple single-use options to advanced professional models catering to different needs. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional, getting the right tool is just a quote away. 

 

Don’t guess your alcohol levels; know them and stay safe. Get your free quote today at Quantum Scientific and choose the breathalyser that best fits your lifestyle.