Design and development of a novel humidity-tolerant gas-sensing material for reliable and high-performance ethanol detection

Abstract

Ethanol sensing with enhanced humidity tolerance was achieved using octahedral nanostructures of pure SnO₂, Sb-doped SnO₂, and Pt-loaded Sb-SnO₂ synthesized via a solvothermal method. All samples exhibited uniform octahedral morphologies (∼100 nm). The 6 wt% Pt/6% Sb-SnO₂ sensor, operating at 100 °C, demonstrated a high response (∼43) to 100 ppm ethanol, with fast response and recovery, a low detection limit (∼7.57 ppm), and excellent stability over 20 days (<10% variation) under fluctuating humidity. These superior performances are attributed to the synergistic effects of Sb doping and Pt loading, which improve ethanol sensitivity and suppress humidity interference. Owing to its low working temperature, fine particle size, high sensitivity, and robust durability, the sensor offers a promising platform for real-time ethanol monitoring in humid environments.