Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is the concentration of alcohol in a person’s blood, and you can measure this alcohol content in the blood by using an alcohol detector. An alcohol detector is a device made of a mouthpiece where the user blows, a section where it holds the breath for analysis, and of course an LED shows where you can view the BAC value. It is powered by batteries and makes use of sensors to get precise readings.
Kinds of Alcohol Detectors
Breathalyzer
It is the most common kind of alcohol detector that is available in the market today and it is what is mostly used by law enforcement officers. This alcohol detector is made of three parts namely the mouthpiece, two glasses to measure outcome of chemical combinations and a system to measure the color change related with the chemical reaction.
To get BAC, an individual is made to breathe into the device. The breath sample goes into one vial and is mix with a sulfuric acid, potassium dichromate, silver nitrate and water. When the mixture reacted, it is then compared to the original mixture, causing the needle to move. The needle will return to its original place when the knob is turned in the device. The alcohol level is determined by the number of turns made until the needle is back to its original position.
Intoxilyzer
Intoxilyzer makes use of infrared spectroscopy to spot particles linked with alcohol drinking. The alcohol level of an individual is measured through the changed of wavelengths and ethanol absorption of the infrared (IR). The device has a small LCD screen displaying the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) readings.
Alcosensor
Alcosensor makes use of fuel cells to detect alcohol. The fuel cell consisted of two platinum electrodes with acid electrolyte in between separating the two electrodes. As an individual breaths, the air flows through one side of the fuel cell, the platinum in the cell oxidizes any alcohol in the air to generate acetic acid, protons and electrons. The electrons in the alcohol stream from the first electrode to the other. As the protons get oxidized it produces electrical current which calculates the alcohol level. You get to see the reading with the small screen LCD which displays the BAC readings.
Tips in choosing an Alcohol Detector
When choosing an alcohol detector, choose one that has a digital LCD screen for displaying the BAC readings. It should have a backlight feature that allows you to use it at night or in the dark.
Also choose an alcohol detector that comes with at least five pieces of extra mouthpieces so you don’t have to buy them separately.
There are a lot of brands available in the market today, but be wise in choosing one. Make sure to do your own research before buying one. You can do your purchase online and you can do your research too online. Check which one would likely work best for you.
One warning though, alcohol is not bad as long as it is not taken in excess. Anything taken in excess is bad with your health and being alcoholic, you are not just putting yourself to danger but others too. When on the road driving, don’t drink and if you can’t help it then don’t drive when you are drunk to avoid any accidents.