Ionization Smoke Detectors

by Benjamin Hammer⁽⁷⁾
Guardian Systems

So far as first lines of defense against sudden fire in the home or business go, a smoke detector is one of the best investments you can make. They typically come in three basic types—Ionization, photoelectric, and dual. In this article, we’ll be covering ionization smoke detectors.

This type of smoke detector uses what is called an ionization chamber as a source of, appropriately-named, ionizing radiation to detect smoke. This may sound high-tech, but it's actually reasonably easy for manufacturers to build. Generally, an ionization smoke detector can be purchased directly from a store for between $10 and $15.

Ionization detectors contain a small amount of americium-241—A radioactive element with a half-life of 432 years—and two electrically conductive plates. The americium generates a number of alpha particles, which serves to ionize (or “knock an electron off of”) the oxygen and nitrogen atoms of the air in the ionization chamber. This creates a free electron, which has a negative charge, and an atom missing an electron, which has a positive charge.

The sensors in the detector pick up the electrical current generated by these molecules moving toward one plate or the other. When smoke enters the ionization chamber, it disrupts this current by neutralizing the charge. This drop in current between the two plates is then picked up by the sensors, and sets off the alarm.

There’s a common belief that ionization smoke detectors are better than the photoelectric variety when it comes to blazing fires. This is true, but only by a slim margin. Many investigative studies have been performed that show photoelectric detectors are, in most all cases, just as capable as an ionization detector. The reverse is not so true—Photoelectric smoke alarms are far more effective at picking up a steady, smoldering fire’s smoke than an ionization detector.

When it comes to protecting your home, family, or business, it’s best to be well-informed. At Guardian Systems, we believe that information is just as much of a lifesaver as quality, functioning equipment. If you’re looking to secure your assets and loved ones, do the smart thing—Know what you need, when you need it, and how to properly apply that knowledge.

Article submitted Friday, June 10, 2011 & read 39 times.

Benjamin Hammer is a security analyst for Guardian Systems. His hobbies include researching many and varied topics, primarily security related, and then sharing what information he finds through his writing.

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