A team of scientists has developed a high-precision hydrogen sensor that could facilitate the safe use of this clean fuel. A device designed by researchers at the University of Manchester in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology ( KAUST ), and has hydrogen leak detection capabilities.
A hydrogen sensor achieves detection in seconds
This new technology is based on organic semiconductors and has proven to be faster and more efficient than portable commercial detectors. It also works based on a phenomenon known as ” p-doping “, in which oxygen molecules modify the electrical charge of the active material. In the presence of hydrogen, this reaction is reversed and causes an immediate drop in the electrical current, allowing the gas to be detected with great precision.
The sensor has been tested in different situations, including leak detection in pipes and monitoring gas dispersion in closed spaces. It has also been integrated into drones to carry out aerial inspections of infrastructure. In all these tests, the device has demonstrated a superior capacity to that of conventional sensors, offering real-time detection with high reliability.
This device is ultra-slim and flexible in design, allowing it to be integrated into smart technology for continuous monitoring of hydrogen systems. In addition, its low energy consumption makes it a great solution for industrial and domestic applications.
Researchers are now working on improving its long-term stability and evaluating its performance in multiple scenarios. According to Thomas Anthopoulos, leader of the research team, this breakthrough could improve the safety of hydrogen, contributing to its mass adoption as a clean energy source.
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Source and photo: TechXplore
