Enhanced PtRu by CeO2 hollow nanofibers: Hydrogen gas sensing with CO-resistant in fuel cell

Abstract

The broad flammability range of hydrogen (4–75 %) underscores the critical need for precise and efficient detection methods. Traditional catalytic combustion sensors can detect combustible gases rapidly; however, they have disadvantages such as high operating temperatures, increased power consumption, and dependence on platinum, with vulnerability to CO poisoning. This study introduced a groundbreaking approach that utilizes CeO₂ hollow nanofibers supported by PtRu nanoparticles to sense hydrogen under extreme conditions, including environments with CO concentrations up to 500 ppm. The unique structure of CeO₂, derived from the Pt/Ce3+ redox pair, provides a high density of oxygen vacancies, which enhances hydrogen detection and enables reactions at room temperature. Our sensor can detect hydrogen concentrations ranging from as low as 100 ppm to as high as 50 %, showcasing its wide detection range and superior selectivity. Our findings confirmed the superior performance of the sensor in realizing consistent and rapid detection in a CO-rich atmosphere. This study presented a significant step toward robust wide-range hydrogen detection, paving the way for safer and more sustainable environmental monitoring. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.