Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate methods and devices for measuring flow rate of particulate matter within an exhaust gas stream. In one particular exemplary embodiment, a sensor for detecting and monitoring particulate matter within an exhaust flow path of an engine is provided. The sensor includes a housing having an attachment for mounting the sensor. The sensor also includes a sensing rod supported by an insulating base. The sensing rod is attached to the housing and includes a probe adapted to be placed within the exhaust flow path. The probe includes a section having an increased surface area per unit length as compared to at least one other section of the probe. The sensing rod is configured to detect particulate matter flowing through the exhaust component and generates a signal based thereupon. The sensor further includes an electrical connector in communication with the sensing rod. The electrical connector is configured to transmit the signal generated by the sensing rod to a controller.