Sensirion releases formaldehyde sensor

This innovative sensor represents a significant advancement in electrochemical sensing, offering exceptional performance within a compact design. Mass production is expected to commence in early 2025.

Formaldehyde, a harmful indoor pollutant often found in wood-based furniture, flooring, paints, and cosmetics, can cause respiratory irritation even at very low concentrations and is classified as a carcinogen. To detect formaldehyde at levels as low as tens of parts per billion (ppb), Sensirion has developed the SFA40, a highly sensitive and selective sensor capable of accurately identifying formaldehyde in the presence of other, typically harmless, volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The SFA40 is a significant advancement in formaldehyde detection, designed for easy integration into indoor air quality monitors, air purifiers, and air conditioners. With dimensions of just 10 x 13 x 2.4 mm³, it opens up new possibilities for space-constrained applications. Its energy-efficient design makes it ideal for battery-operated devices, ensuring a longer operational lifespan without sacrificing performance. Building on the success of the SFA30, the SFA40 continues to deliver accurate, calibrated, and compensated digital output throughout its entire lifespan.

Manufactured, designed, and calibrated in Switzerland, the SFA40 guarantees the highest quality standards, removing the need for further calibration by customers. Sensirion is committed to ensuring top-tier quality and is working towards third-party certification to validate the sensor's precision.

“Our goal with the SFA40 is to make innovation in formaldehyde sensing accessible for everyone. Designed with the end user in mind, the SFA40 features ultra-low cross-sensitivity to indoor VOCs, such as ethanol, and low power consumption in a miniature form factor. Whether incorporated into indoor air quality monitors, air purifiers, or air conditioners, the SFA40 delivers highly reliable results," said Dr. Olga Kuemin, Product Manager for Formaldehyde Sensors at Sensirion.