Rare Earth Material for Hydrogen Gas Sensing: PtGd Alloy Thin Films as a Promising Frontier

Abstract

At the focus of our investigation lies the precision fabrication of ultrathin platinum–gadolinium (PtGd) alloy films, with the aim to use these films for resistive hydrogen gas sensing. The imperative for sensitive and selective sensors to harness hydrogen’s potential as an alternative energy source drives our work. Applying rare earth materials, we enhance the capabilities of hydrogen gas sensing applications. Our study pioneers PtGd alloy thin films for hydrogen gas sensing, addressing a gap in existing literature. Here, we demonstrate the functional characteristics of 2 nm thick PtxGd100′x (x = 25, 50 and 75) alloy films, analyzing their hydrogen gas sensing properties, comprehensively examining the interplay between alloy composition, temperature fluctuation and hydrogen concentration. The effect of composition and structural properties on the sensing response were assessed using EDX and XPS. The films are tested at a temperature range between 25 °C and 150 °C with hydrogen gas concentrations ranging from 10 ppm to 5%. Hydrogen gas sensing mechanisms in PtGd alloy ultrathin films are explained by surface scattering. The unique combination of Pt and Gd offers promising characteristics for gas sensing applications, including high reactivity with hydrogen gas and tunable sensitivity based on the alloy composition.