In a Nutshell: Highly Accurate Breath Alcohol Measurement 20.12.2024 - What does the “Wachauer Nase” have to do with breath alcohol measurement? The new video from the Federal Office of Metrology and Surveying - BEV provides exciting insights into the precise technology behind breath alcohol measuring devices.

These devices, which are used during traffic checks, for example, use a so-called “electronic nose” to precisely analyze the alcohol content in the breath. Two sensors are crucial here: an infrared sensor and an electrochemical sensor work together to provide reliable readings.
The video shows how the devices are rigorously tested at the BEV, tested with specially produced test liquids and calibrated. After successful calibration, the measuring devices receive a calibration stamp and the innovative MMEII QR code. This enables quick access to all relevant device information.

The video on breath alcohol measurement was produced by BEV employees with the support of the BEV's Physico-technical Testing Service and is now available on our YouTube channel.

As the national metrology institute in Austria, the BEV is responsible for the presentation and dissemination of units of measurement. The measurements and approval tests carried out at the BEV ensure that measuring instruments meet the legal requirements and work reliably - a basis for trust in trade and industry.