Engineering of a Novel Nanostructured Hydrogen Sensor

Hydrogen is of great importance in various energy, environment, and industry sectors, due to its zero-emission, impressive gravimetric energy density (120 MJ/kg that is 3 times of diesel and LNG) and can allow zero-carbon energy strategies. However, the scaling up of hydrogen is jeopardized by its high tendency to be flammable/explosive in the air at a low concentration of 4-75% at atmospheric pressure, and energy of 0.02 mJ. These barriers could be defeated via the development of an efficient sensor for the detection of hydrogen leaks at low concentrations. The optical, electrochemical, microelectronic mechanical system, thin/thick film, thermochromic, diode-based Schottky, and metallic sensors are the currently available sensors for hydrogen. However, these sensors mainly depend on noble metals (Pt/Pd) and/or metals which are costly, rare, and need require reaction steps for preparation as well as hazardous solvents. Also, sensitivity, reliability, and response time remain daunting challenges. This project is dedicated to the rational design of porous one-dimensional nanostructures with or without metals and to develop a clear understanding of their formation mechanism. The as-obtained nanostructures will be used for the fabrication of reliable, low-cost, sensitive, and accurate electrochemical for hydrogen sensors at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The fabrication method is eco-friendly, template-free, and one-pot without the need for multiple reaction steps or special laboratory equipment. Porous one-dimensional nanostructures possess unique physiochemical properties and electrochemical merits. Moreover, porous one-dimensional nanostructures for the sensor will be synthesized from earth-abundant and inexpensive materials that are feasible for large-scale and commercial applications. The outcomes of this project are expected to lead to multiple publications, novel technology development, and national capacity building.