Quantitative analysis of the synergistic effect of Au nanoparticles on SnO2-rGO nanocomposites for room temperature hydrogen sensing

Hydrogen detection devices based on gold-tin oxide/reduced graphene oxide (Au-SnO2/rGO) nanohybrids were fabricated by combining a hydrothermal method with sputter coating. The gas sensing performance of the Au-SnO2/rGO sensor was investigated under different concentrations of hydrogen from 0.04% to 1% at room temperature, which indicated a notable sensitive response even for 0.04% hydrogen. The activation energies of hydrogen adsorption/desorption were extracted via Arrhenius analysis which revealed the acceleration effect of gold dopants. This acceleration led to a faster response and recovery during hydrogen sensing. The activation energy analysis provided a more comprehensive understanding on the gas sensing mechanism. A hydrogen detection handheld device is demonstrated by integrating the sensor chip with a portable digital meter for direct readout of test results.

Automated summary

Hydrogen detection devices using Au-SnO2/rGO nanohybrids showed notable sensitivity, even at concentrations as low as 0.04% hydrogen. The acceleration effect of gold dopants resulted in faster response and recovery during hydrogen sensing, as revealed by activation energy analysis. Integration of the sensor chip with a portable digital meter demonstrated a hydrogen detection handheld device for direct readout of test results.