Novel Kohl-based sensors for room-temperature detection of LPG and NH₃: a comprehensive investigation

In this study, we evaluated the gas-sensing performance of a novel lead sulfide (PbS)-based sensor developed using Kohl, showing high sensitivity to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and ammonia (NH₃) under ambient conditions. The Kohl-based sensors were tested across a voltage range of 5–6 V. Structural, morphological, and surface properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). We also delved into the underlying mechanism of the sensor's functionality. The PbS sensors demonstrated a response time of 202 s and a recovery time of 110 s for LPG, and a response time of 180 s, and a recovery time of 115 s for NH₃. In addition, the underlying mechanisms of sensor functionality were investigated.