Characteristics of resistivity-type hydrogen sensing based on palladium-graphene nanocomposites

We describe the characteristics of resistivity-type hydrogen (H₂) sensors made of palladium (Pd)-graphene nanocomposites. The Pd-graphene composite was synthesized by a simple chemical route capable of large production. Synthesis of Pd nanoparticles (PdNPs) of various sizes decorated on graphene flakes were easily controlled by varying the concentration of Pd precursors. Resistivity H₂ sensors were fabricated from these Pd-graphene composites and evaluated with various concentrations of H₂ and interfering gases at different temperatures. Characteristics for sensitivity, selectivity, response time and operating life were studied. The results from testing the Pd-graphene indicated a potential for hydrogen sensing materials at low temperature with good sensitivity and selectivity. Specifically H₂ was measurable with concentrations ranging from 1 to 1000 ppm in laboratory air, with a very low detection limit of 0.2 ppm. The response of the sensors is almost linear. The resistivity of sensors changed approximately 7% in its resistance with 1000 ppm H₂ even at room temperature. The robust mechanical properties of graphene, which supported these PdNPs, exhibit structural stability and durability in H₂ sensors for at least six months. Moreover, the advantages in this work are experimental reproducibility in synthesis Pd-graphene composite and sensor fabrication process.