| abstract |
In the method proposed, the gas or gas mixture under analysis is passed through at least one support (5) in which at least one acoustic or ultrasonic transmitter or receiver cell (S1, S2) is located, preferably at an angle to the axis of the tube, to form a measurement path. The acoustic or ultrasonic transmitter or receiver elements (S1, S2) emit a pulsed acoustic signal, and the travel times of the pulses over the measurement path are determined. The variation in gas temperature along the at least one acoustic-transmission path is determined by, for instance, a temperature probe. The molecular weight is determined from the travel time of the acoustic pulses and the measured or assumed temperature. The device proposed is suitable for use in diagnosing deficiencies in the functioning of the lungs. |