GAS DETECTION DEVICE WITH A DETECTOR AND WITH A COMPENSATOR AND GAS DETECTION PROCESS WITH SUCH A GAS DETECTION DEVICE

A gas detection device and a gas detection process monitor an area for a combustible target gas. A detector (10), a compensator (11.1), a sensor array (40, 41) and an analysis unit (9) are arranged in a gas detection device housing. The detector includes an electrically conductive wire with a heating segment (20), electrical insulation around the wire and a catalytic material in the electrical insulation. The compensator extends in a plane and includes an electrical strip conductor (32) with a heating segment and a carrier plate for the strip conductor. The gas detection device applies an electrical voltage to the detector and to the compensator. The detector oxidizes the target gas with the heating segment. The sensor array measures detection variables (U10, U11) for the detector and the compensator. The analysis unit compares the two detection variables to determine if a combustible target gas is present.