The Vaisala Group introduces an ammonia detector onto the global market in August of this year. The detector, based on polymer thin film technology, will improve the safety of people and storerooms where there is a danger of ammonia leaks. This new ammonia detector is more reliable and also operates in high humidities. The new ammonia detector is expected to open the door for Vaisala to a global market worth roughly 40 million Euros.

"In our new ammonia measurement technology, we have utilised experience as a global market leader in humidity sensors. The most significant market for us will be industries that use ammonia as a refrigerant, e.g. the semi-manufactured and frozen goods industry, the meat processing industry, dairies and cold stores. This  refrigeration market covers the largest part of the whole world's ammonia detector market", states the President and CEO of the Vaisala Group, Pekka Ketonen.

Vaisala's ammonia detector does not react to other gases and odors, which will considerably reduce false alarms. This has been a problem with existing ammonia measurement technologies and thus Vaisala has paid special attention to this.

The demand for ammonia detectors is expected to grow in the future, because global environmental agreements limit the use of current refrigerants  that reduce the ozone layer. As an environmentally friendly refrigerant, ammonia will be used as one of the replacements for freon gases.

Ammonia is colourless and lighter than air at room temperature. It is a chemical that is hazardous to the health and has a pungent, irritating smell. In large concentrations, ammonia causes irritation in the mucous membranes, coughing or even death.

The Vaisala Group is a successful international technology company that develops and manufactures electronic measurement systems and equipment for meteorology, environmental sciences, traffic safety and industry. Vaisala employs over 1,000 skilled professionals and achieved net sales of EUR 179.5 million in 2000. Vaisala serves customers throughout the world. In 2000, exports accounted for 96% of net sales. Vaisala's A-series shares are quoted on the HEX Helsinki Exchange.