Method for performing regeneration processing on a gas sensor

摘要

A sensor element (101) comprising an oxygen ion conductive solid electrolyte. Reverse voltage application processing is achieved by electrically connecting the reference electrode (42) formed on an internal surface of the sensor element to a negative terminal of a DC power supply (92), and electrically connecting the external pumping electrode (23) to a positive terminal of the DC power supply (92). Oxides derived from the reference electrode are thus reduced, the reference electrode is refreshed and oxygen is discharged outside the sensor element.