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Abstract

Apparatus and method for determining incomplete combustion in a combustion analyzer comprising a combustion chamber (60). A sample is supplied to the combustion chamber and combusted to produce combustion products. A target gas characteristic of incomplete combustion of the sample is detected in the combustion products by a target gas sensor (72). The target gas may be carbon monoxide, methane, methanal and/or methanol, among others. Preferably, the gas sensor is an electronic or catalytic combustible gas sensor. Whether incomplete combustion of the sample has occurred may be determined. A signal indicative of incomplete combustion is output from the target gas sensor to a controller (78). The combustion products can be directed to waste and/or further supply of the sample/oxygen may be stopped/adjusted. Faulty analysis measurements and/or contamination of downstream components, which would otherwise result from incomplete combustion--in particular, from soot formation--can thereby be avoided.

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First Claim