Device, especially gas sensor or solar cell, is operated by ambient medium change for rectification property alteration of two contacting different conductivity materials

摘要

The device operating method comprises changing a medium in contact with the device to alter the rectification property of two contacting different conductivity materials. Independent claims are also included for the following: (i) a device comprising two different conductivity materials which contact in a contact region, the conductivity of which changes on contact with a medium; (ii) a sensor comprising the above device; and (iii) a solar cell comprising the above device. Preferred Features: One or more current/voltage values are detected, e.g. a current/voltage value is determined in a medium of known composition and another current/voltage value is determined in a medium to be analyzed. The device may be located in a housing in which a desired medium composition can be produced and/or maintained.