Publication date: 13th July 2024
Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have attracted considerable attention as potential gas sensing elements due to their unique ability to detect and respond to an external stimulus with measurable electrical or optical signals, as well as their simple fabrication processes. This research presents a comprehensive investigation into the development of high-performance, room-temperature MHP-based gas sensors for ozone and hydrogen detection by engineering their compositional and morphological features of the sensing materials.
This research is focused on studying the role of size, composition and morphology on the final sensing performance and stability over time. A simple solution process was employed to synthesize ligand-free CsPbBr3 micro- and nanocubes and their synthesis parameters were tuned to alter their morphology. The resulting rounded cube-shaped crystals (RC), due to morphological imperfections, exhibit superior gas sensing capabilities compared to well-shaped counterparts. RC-based sensors demonstrate exceptional response, detecting ozone concentrations as low as 4 ppb at room temperature with fast response/recovery times, remarkable stability, and effectiveness in detecting hydrogen at concentrations of 1 ppm. [1, 2] In addition, mixed halide perovskites were found to be more stable over time and doping with Mn improves the sensing response. [3]
Furthermore, this research delves into the fundamental mechanisms governing the interactions between perovskite materials and gaseous analytes. A series of sensing experiments complemented by atomistic simulations were conducted to evaluate the influence of halide composition variation and Mn doping levels on the electrical conductivity, responsiveness, and long-term stability of MHP sensors. The study identifies optimal halide combinations and Mn-doping levels for engineering low-cost, high-performing, and durable perovskite-based gas sensors. [3]
Overall, these findings highlight the potential of MHPs as highly sensitive, easily fabricated, and low-power consumption gas sensors. Ongoing research aims to extend the applicability of this approach to other gases and explore the potential of Pb-free perovskites for gas-selective sensing applications, contributing to advancements in environmental monitoring and breath research.
The project has received funding from the EU's Horizon Europe framework programme for research and innovation under grant agreement BRIDGE (n. 101079421)