H₂ Gas Sensor Based on Pd-Loaded Carbon Nanotube Film

Palladium-coated multi-walled carbon nanotube (Pd-MWCNT) nanocomposites have been experimentally proven to show highly improved hydrogen (H-2) gas detection characteristics at room temperature when compared with single MWCNTs. In this context, we develop an efficient and convenient method for forming nanocomposites by coating Pd nanoparticles on an MWCNT film. Furthermore, we test the applicability of the nanocomposites as sensing materials in detecting H-2 gas at room temperature in a reliable and sensitive manner in contrast with ordinary metal-oxide based gas sensors that operate at high temperatures. We first study the detection efficacy of the Pd-MWCNT film relative to, pure MWCNT film. Subsequently, we investigate the Pd-MWCNT sensor's sensitivity over time for different gas concentrations, the sensor response time, and sensor reproducibility and reliability under various conditions including bending tests. Our sensor exhibits stable reliable detection characteristics and excellent structural flexibility.