Alcohol Detector
Alcohol Detector
to
of
of
Bachelor of Technology
in
Electronics & Communication Technology
By
Year: 2024-25
DECLARATION
We hereby declare that the mini project report entitled, ‘Alcohol Detection
System Using Arduino’ has been completed and written by us for the
fulfillment of term work of T.Y. B.Tech (Electronics & Communication
Technology) of degree of Bachelor of Technology in Electronics &
Communication Technology, of Department of Technology, Shivaji
University, Kolhapur. The contents of this report are written by us and are
not copied from any source or published anywhere in any form prior to the
submission, for the award of any graduate/ post graduate course.
Date: /04/2025
Place: Kolhapur
NAME OF STUDENTS
Date: /04/2025
This is certified that the project work entitled ‘Alcohol Detection System
Using Arduino’ has assessed by me/us and found to be completed in all
aspects for fulfillment of work to be done under Mini Project head of Third
Year B.Tech (Electronics & Communication Technology) of degree of
‘Bachelor of Technology’ in Electronics and Communication Technology,
of Department of Technology, Shivaji University, Kolhapur. It is the result
of the work completed by
Project Guide
Place: Kolhapur
MINI PROJECT TITLE-
Student signatures
1]
2]
3]
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who supported and
guided me throughout the completion of this project, “alcohol detection
system using Arduino.”
I would also like to extend my appreciation to the faculty and staff of the
electronics & telecommunication branch of department of technology for
providing the necessary facilities and a supportive learning environment.
This project has been a great learning experience for me, and i am thankful
to everyone who contributed, directly or indirectly, to its successful
execution.
Project Guide
1 Abstract 05
2 Introduction 06-07
3 Theory 08-10
6 Working Principle 21
9 References 27-28
CHAPTER 1
ABSTRACT
The purpose of this project is to prevent the vehicle accidents by using an alcohol
detector in an effort to reduce traffic accident cases based on driving under the influence
of alcohol. This project is developed by integrating the alcohol sensor with the
microcontroller. The alcohol sensor used in this project is MQ-3 which is used to detect
the alcohol content in human breath. The alcohol content level in blood is detected by the
alcohol sensor from the human breath. The ignition system of the vehicle is operated
The identification of alcohol with the locking mechanism of the engine decreases the
spike of road accidents caused by drivers' extreme alcohol intake. The device controls
alcohol in the driver's exhaled breath to activate the engine locking system. Alcohol
sensor Arduino Mega microcontroller, DC motor, is used for system creation. The car
engine is switched off, and the emergency siren is blown as soon as alcohol is detected,
minimizing the likelihood of any potential mishaps. The prototype is also useful for
preventing a catastrophic driver-induced crash. Previously, there was no technology to
lock the vehicle engine after the alcohol was detected. Driver alcohol consumption too
much, which was the main cause of the accident. It was the same manual checks after a
particular distance on streets or freeways, but they will never be enough to halt the
malfunctions. Driving any vehicle in a developing country like Malaysia takes great
dedication, rapid thought, and drivers' judgment talents to help stop traffic accidents.
Getting drunk alcohol beyond a certain quantity distorts a driver's standard brain function
and mentality, which often leads to accidents that impact not only the driver but also his
fellow passengers and people nearby. In turn, the family members may also suffer from
fatal trauma. The proposed device would measure the many conditions that can cause an
alarm to signify the driver's drunk or sober state when fitted on a steering wheel within
the car. For the recommendation to improve the project in the future, particularly in
preventing system cheats and device damage. Concerning anti-cheating, one common
approach to cheating the device is to request another person to take a clean sample of a
breath when starting the car.
CHAPTER 2
INTRODUCTION
This project focuses on the construction of an alcohol detector utilizing an Arduino Uno
microcontroller and an MQ-3 alcohol sensor. The MQ-3 sensor is a reliable, low-cost,
and portable device capable of detecting the presence of ethanol vapors in the air. It
operates by heating a layer of conductive material and monitoring changes in resistance
when exposed to alcohol vapors. The sensor provides both analog and digital signals,
with analog outputs ranging from 0 to 1023, directly corresponding to the concentration
of alcohol in the environment.
The Arduino Uno, built on the ATmega328P microcontroller, serves as the central
processing unit of the system. With features like analog and digital I/O pins, a USB
interface, and ease of integration with sensors, Arduino makes the entire setup simple,
efficient, and user-friendly.
The primary objective of this project is to develop a functional, accurate, and cost-
effective alcohol detection system that can be used as a breathalyzer or integrated into
vehicle safety systems. When the alcohol level exceeds a predefined threshold, the
system can trigger alerts or even disable vehicle ignition to prevent impaired driving.
This system supports law enforcement in ensuring road safety and aims to reduce the
number of accidents caused by alcohol-impaired drivers.
Furthermore, this project aligns with ISO/IEC 9126 quality standards, ensuring its
functionality, reliability, usability, efficiency, maintainability, and portability. With a
minimal set of components—primarily an MQ-3 sensor, an Arduino Uno, and LED
indicators—this system offers a scalable and practical approach to enhancing public
health and safety.
LITERATURE SURVEY:
In this paper author describes the alcohol detection system for vehicle by using alcohol
sensor, GPS and GSM module. In this paper author discuss about the smart helmet
system using alcohol detection for vehicle protection. This paper introduces methods
such as alcohol detection, heart beat rate monitoring system and personal identification
system and discuss how they can be implemented to avoid accidents. Instead of using
Arduino board in this project they used microcontroller 16F877A. This paper author
discusses about driver’s behavior, safety application & auto theft prevention system. This
paper represents accident vehicle automatic detection system by image processing [8]. In
this paper they describe about body area sensing, alcohol detection craving. In our paper
we discuss about the alcohol detection system for vehicle using alcohol sensor MQ3 and
buzzer using Arduino.
CHAPTER 3
THEORY
3.2.1 IoT−KeyFeatures
The most important features of IoT include artificial intelligence, connectivity, sensors,
activeengagement, and small device use. A brief review of these features is given below
AI − IoT essentially makes virtually anything “smart”, meaning it enhances every
aspect of life with the power of data collection, artificial intelligence algorithms, and
networks. Thiscan mean something as simple as enhancing your refrigerator and cabinets
to detect whenmilk and your favourite cereal run low, and to then place an order with
your preferred grocer.
Sensors − IoT loses its distinction without sensors. They act as defining instruments
that transform IoT from a standard passive network of devices into an active system
capable of realworld integration.
Active Engagement − Much of today's interaction with connected technology
happens through passive engagement. IoT introduces a new paradigm for active content,
product, or service engagement.
Small Devices − Devices, as predicted, have become smaller, cheaper, and more
powerful over time. IoT exploits purpose-built small devices to deliver its precision,
scalability, and versatility.
8 The advantages of IoT span across every area of lifestyle and business. Here is a list of
some of the advantages that IoT has to offer.
Improved Customer Engagement − Current analytics suffer from blind spots and
significant flaws in accuracy; and as noted, engagement remains passive. IoT completely
transforms this to achieve richer and more effective engagement with audiences.
Technology Optimization − The same technologies and data which improve the
customer experience also improve device use, and aid in more potent improvements to
technology. IoT unlocks a world of critical functional and field data. Reduced Waste −
IoT makes areas of improvement clear. Current analytics give us superficial insight, but
IoT provides real-world information leading to more effective management of resources.
Enhanced Data Collection − Modern data collection suffers from its limitations and
its design for passive use. IoT breaks it out of those spaces and places it exactly where
humans really want to go to analyse our world. It allows an accurate picture of
everything.
3.3. IoT–Disadvantages
Though IoT delivers an impressive set of benefits, it also presents a significant set of
challenges. Here is a list of some its major issues.
Flexibility − Many are concerned about the flexibility of an IoT system to integrate
easily with another. They worry about finding themselves with several conflicting or
locked systems.
Compliance − IoT, like any other technology in the realm of business, must comply
with regulations. Its complexity makes the issue of compliance seem incredibly
challenging when many consider standard software compliance a battle
IoT software addresses its key areas of networking and action through platforms,
embedded systems, partner systems, and middleware. These individual and master
applications are responsible for data collection, device integration, real-time analytics,
and application and process extension within the IoT network. They exploit integration
with critical business systems 9 (e.g., orderingsystems, robotics, scheduling, and more)
in the execution of related tasks.
Data Collection
This software manages sensing, measurements, light data filtering, light data security,
and aggregation of data. It uses certain protocols to aid sensors in connecting with real-
time, machineto-machine networks. Then it collects data from multiple devices and
distributes it in accordance with settings. It also works in reverse by distributing data
over devices. The system eventually transmits all collected data to a central server.
Device Integration
CHAPTER 4
BLOCK DIAGRAM
The process in this block diagram is input, process and output that will explain more
about the research development for alcohol detection using Arduino with motor locking.
The first section is for the input is an Mq-3 sensor, the alcohol sensor. The detector will
deliver the Arduino data if the sensor detects alcohol in the driver's breath. The Arduino
then reads the data and passes it to the computer. The computer will display the data by
the concentration of alcohol that the sensor detects by exhaling the driver's breath.
1. ARDUINO BOARD
FEATURES
Microcontroller ATmega328
Operating Voltage 5V
The analog gas sensor- MQ3 is suitable for alcohol detecting, this sensor can be used in a
breath analyzer. It has a high sensitivity to alcohol and small sensitivity to benzene. The
sensitivity can be adjusted by the potentiometer sensitive material of MQ3 gas sensor is
SnO2, which with lower conductivity in clean air. When the target alcohol gas exist, the
sensors conductivity is higher along with the gas concentration rising, use of simple
electro circuit, convert change of conductivity to correspond output signal of gas
concentration.
MQ-3 gas sensor has high sensitivity to Alcohol, and has good resistance to disturb of
gasoline, smoke and vapour. It has fine sensitivity range around 2 meters. The sensor
could be used to detect alcohol with different concentration; it is with low cost and
suitable for different application.
Sensitivity Adjustment:
Resistance value of MQ-3 is difference to various kinds and various concentration gases.
So, when using these components, sensitivity adjustment is very necessary. It is
recommended to calibrate the detector for 0.4mg/L (approximately 200ppm) of Alcohol
concentration in air and use value of Load resistance that (RL) about 200 KΩ (100KΩ to
470KΩ). When accurately measuring, proper alarm point for the gas detector has to be
determined after considering the temperature and humidity influence.
Character configuration:
6. Small towards benzene and High sensitivity to alcohol Simple drive circuit with
size:40*20mm
Liquid crystal display screen is the electronic display module and find a wide ranges of
applications. A 16*2 LCD display is very basic module and it is very commonly use in
various devices and circuit. These modules are preferred to seven segments and other
multi segments LEDs. The reason being: LCDs are economical; easily programmable;
have no limitation of displaying special and even custom characters (unlike in 7
segments), animations and so on. A 16*2 LCD means it can display 16 characters per
line and there are 2 such lines. In this LCD each character is displayed in 5*7 pixel
matrix. This LCD has 2 registers, namely command and data.
Fig4.3 LCD Display
The command registers store the command instructions given to the LCD. A command is
an instruction given to LCD to do a predefined task like initializing it, clearing its screen,
setting the cursor position, controlling display etc. the data registers store the data to be
display on the LCD. the data is the ASCII value of the character to be displayed on the
LCD.
4. Buzzer-
Features:
1. The PS series are high performance buzzers that employ uni-morph piezoelectric
elements and are designed for easy incorporation into various circuits.
3. Because these buzzers are designed for external excitation, the same part can serve as
both a musical tone oscillator and a buzzer.
4. They can be use with automated inserters, moisture- resistant models are also available
Fig4.4 Buzzer
5. Jumper wire
• Solid tips
• Crocodile clips
• Banana connectors
• RCA connectors
• RF jumper cables
6.Software Design
7.Designed Model
Fig4.7 Designed Model
Alcohol detectors that are based on Arduino are a straightforward device that can
determine whether or not alcohol is present in the air that is inhaled. The research makes
use of a MQ-3 alcohol sensor in order to determine whether or not there are any traces of
alcohol present. An LCD or LED screen is used to display the results of the processing of
the data that is received from the sensor by an Arduino board, which then displays the
results. It is possible for the MQ-3 sensor to accurately assess the amount of alcohol that
is present in the surrounding environment since it possesses a high degree of sensitivity
to alcohol. Signals of both digital and analogue types could be produced by the sensor.
The distinction between digital and analog signals is straightforward: digital signals can
only send one of two values—1 or 0—to a microcontroller, whereas analog signals can
convey a wide range of values—from 0 to 1023—that measure the amount of alcohol
that is present in the air. Due to the fact that it is simple to construct, this project is ideal
for displaying straightforward tiny projects or because it may be utilized in smaller
devices.
CHAPTER 5
ALGORITHM
Source Code
#include <LiquidCrystal_I2C.h>
#define LED 2
#define Buzzer 3
#define Sensor Al
void setup() {
Serial.begin (9200);
lcd.init()/
lcd.backlight();
void loop() {
lcd.setCursor(0, 0);
lcd.print("Value:")
lcd.print(value);
lcd.print("");
if (value> 400) (
digitalWrite(LED, HIGH);
lcd.setCursor(0, 1);
lcd.print("ALCOHOL Detected!");
} else {
To begin, use the programming cable to connect the Uno board to the computer. Ensure
that the USB side of the cable is firmly connected into the computer. The next step is to
launch the Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and proceed to insert the
code that has been provided. It is important to make sure that the correct board is
selected before beginning the upload process. To do this, go to the "Tools" menu and
pick "Arduino Uno." In the same manner, using the "Tools" menu, select the appropriate
port in order to confirm the appropriate port number. When you have finished verifying
these criteria, you should next proceed to click the upload button. Immediately following
the completion of the upload, the USB cord should be disconnected from the Uno board.
The Arduino Uno is currently capable of being powered by an external battery. This
feature is available to it. It is important to note that there is no requirement for an
additional resistor when utilizing a 3.7V battery. Regarding batteries that have a higher
voltage, however, it is possible that appropriate resistors will be required depending on
the voltage levels. This strategy has the ability to reduce the number of accidents that are
brought on by the consumption of alcohol in the future. This system improves the safety
and well-being of individuals within the population. This will allow for substantial
breakthroughs to be made in the automotive industry with the goal of reducing the
number of accidents that are caused by alcohol. The investigation of alcohol detection
with the use of Arduino is a fascinating field. In the development of an alcohol detection
system, this technology demonstrates a great deal of potential as a prospective
application. This technology has the potential to reduce the number of accidents that are
caused by drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, hence reducing the
number of incidents that would otherwise occur. It is currently in the beginning stages of
development that alcohol detection systems that make use of Arduino technology are
being developed. This leaves a significant amount of potential for additional research and
inquiry in this area. The enhancement of the system's precision, the reduction of the
system's size, and the development of innovative applications for the technology are all
potential areas within which research might be conducted.
CHAPTER 6
WORKING PRINCIPLE
Vapours of alcohol can be detected by the MQ-3 sensor at concentrations ranging from
0.1 mg/L to 10 mg/L. Because of the non-linear relationship that exists between
fluctuations in concentration and voltage, a lookup table is required in order to obtain
reliable readings across the extensive range of alcohol concentrations at which alcohol
can be found. Due to the fact that it is able to detect even minute levels of alcohol in the
air, it is an excellent component for breathalyzers.
CHAPTER 7
The MQ-3 alcohol sensor possesses numerous benefits, rendering it a widely favored
option for diverse applications. First and foremost, it is offered at a reasonable price,
making it easily obtainable for a wide range of tasks. Additionally, it provides an
extended life span, guaranteeing prolonged functionality and dependability. The
excellent stability of the device guarantees reliable and precise measurements that remain
consistent over an extended period. Moreover, its heightened sensitivity enables quicker
reaction times, hence improving its efficacy in promptly detecting alcohol levels. The
sensor necessitates an uncomplicated drive circuit and is uncomplicated to utilize,
rendering it appropriate for both novices and proficient users alike. Additionally, its
interoperability and user-friendly interface with microcontrollers streamline the
integration process into various systems. When used in an automobile, employing an
alcohol sensor can offer vital safety precautions, enabling protection in situations where
individuals are intoxicated. During such circumstances, alternate family members can
assume the role of driving, so guaranteeing road safety. Moreover, the sensor can protect
the vehicle from unwanted entry, providing an additional level of protection to the car.
If Alcohol Level is High, the Buzzer will Alarm, LED will glow according to LED Color
and Measure the Level of Alcohol. If Alcohol Level is Low, The Buzzer will not Alarm
and LED will not glow.
This project aims to demonstrate the alcohol concentration for the drive system that uses
an alcohol sensor. As a result, the driver's safety can be ensured by engine locking,
which has been shown to reduce the number of accidents.
Figures 1 to 3 show the results of using the Alcohol Sensor to determine the existence of
a silent in-vehicle breathalyzer detection system for the driver is currently unclear.
Figure 1 shows a reading of 85.94 for the alcohol level. Because the level is less than
150, it is safe to assume that using the alcohol sensor, no alcohol composition was
discovered in the driver's exhaled air. As a result, it could be regarded as an alcohol level
that has gone undetected.
FIGURE 7.1 The alcohol level could be considered an undetected alcohol level.
Figure 3 depicts an alcohol level reading ranging from 150 to 400 milligrams per litre. In
the driver's exhaled breath, the sensor detects a bit of concentration of alcohol. As a
result, a "DRUNK" message will appear on the screen, and the buzzer will begin to buzz
loudly to alert the driver. The buzzer will continue to ring incessantly. The purpose of the
system is to protect the folks when driving a vehicle by reducing the number of accidents
caused by the engine locking system.
FIGURE 7.2 The alcohol level is between 300 to 400 for 'DRUNK!!! condition.
Table7.1.2: Level of drunkenness
CHAPTER 8
Conclusion:
In conclusion, we have gained the knowledge necessary to know how to connect a MQ3
alcohol sensor to an Arduino by utilizing the digital and analog output pins of the sensor.
In addition to this, we discovered that the alcohol sensor module can be calibrated by
using the AOUT and DOUT pins. There is a significant amount of interest among
students and hobbyists in the construction of alcohol detectors utilizing the Arduino
platform. Additionally, an Arduino board and a MQ-3 alcohol sensor are utilized in this
project in order to ascertain whether or not there is alcohol present in the atmosphere.
The sensor detects the vapor or smell of alcohol, and it then transmits a signal to the
Arduino board in order to receive the information. The signal is then processed by the
circuit, and if it determines that alcohol is present, it activates either a warning light or an
LED. Authors searched over the entire internet for a definitive response to this
assignment, but authors were unable to locate one. On the other hand, authors were able
to locate a Techatronic guide that provides a comprehensive explanation of everything
that is required to construct an alcohol detector using an Arduino and a MQ3 sensor.
Through the course of the presentation, you will be presented with in-depth explanations
of the components, the circuit diagram.
Future Scope:
To control the accidents causes due to alcohol consumption. This system improves the
safety of human being. And hence providing the effective development in the automobile
industry regarding to reduce the accidents cause due to alcohol. We can further
improvise the activity to work in a car. By connecting a relay with the car’s ignition the
car won’t start if the driver is under influence of alcohol. Removing all the possibilities
of drunk driving.
EXPENDITURE ON MINI PROJECT
4 Buzzer 15 15
5 Jumper wire 3 45
6 Breadboard 70 70
7 Register 3 3
8 LED 5 5
Total 888
[2] Dr. Pavan Shukla, Utkarsh Srivastava, Sridhar Singh, and Rishabh
Tripathi, Rakesh Raushan Sharma, "Automatic Engine Locking System
Through Alcohol Detection," Int. J. Eng. Res., vol. V9, no. 05, pp. 637–
640, 2020, doi: 10.17577/ijertv9is050528.
[3] B. Y. Rao, "Intelligent Alcohol Detection System for Car," Int. J. Sci.
Eng. Res., vol. 5, no. 11, pp. 598– 601, 2014, [Online]. Available:
http://www.ijser.org.
[4] P. Ranjana, R. Mukesh, A. Kumar, N. N. S. S. Sujith, and C. H.
Sathyasai, "Vehicle engine lock system for theft and alcohol detection," Int.
J. Recent Technol. Eng., vol. 7, no. 5, pp. 363–367, 2019.