Quantitative analysis of the synergistic effect of Au nanoparticles on SnO2–rGO nanocomposites for room temperature hydrogen sensing

Abstract

Hydrogen detection devices based on gold-tin oxide/reduced graphene oxide (Au–SnO₂/rGO) nanohybrids were fabricated by combining a hydrothermal method with sputter coating. The gas sensing performance of the Au–SnO₂/rGO sensor was investigated under different concentrations of hydrogen from 0.04% to 1% at room temperature, which indicated a notable sensitive response even for 0.04% hydrogen. The activation energies of hydrogen adsorption/desorption were extracted via Arrhenius analysis which revealed the acceleration effect of gold dopants. This acceleration led to a faster response and recovery during hydrogen sensing. The activation energy analysis provided a more comprehensive understanding on the gas sensing mechanism. A hydrogen detection handheld device is demonstrated by integrating the sensor chip with a portable digital meter for direct readout of test results.