Hydrogen sensors operated in oxygen-free environments

Abstract

Hydrogen (H2) is considered a next-generation clean energy source for replacing fossil fuels, and detecting H2 leaks is crucial from a safety standpoint. As the application of H2 energy becomes increasingly diverse and complex, there is a growing need to detect H2 leaks in oxygen-free environments. However, conventional oxygen-dependent H2 sensors lose their ability to detect gas in such environments. This work briefly outlines the research progress toward developing H2 sensors that can operate in oxygen-free environments, including the sensing materials, sensor device structures, gas sensing properties and mechanisms. Finally, we present some perspectives for the future development of H2 sensors for use in oxygen-free environments.