Enhanced hydrogen sensing performance by modulating energy band of Pd/SnO2/WO3 triple-layer thin film sensor
摘要
In this work, a triple-layer Pd/SnO2/WO3 hydrogen sensor was designed and deposited on anodic aluminum oxide (AAO). By integrating both a heterojunction and a Schottky junction, an additional electron depletion layer has been added, and then systematic optimization of the SnO2 thickness enables effective modulation of the interfacial coupling between the Pd/SnO2 and SnO2/WO3, as well as conduction channels, thereby affecting the energy band SnO2 and its hydrogen sensing performance. The optimized sensor achieves approximately twice the response (Rs) of the Pd/WO3/AAO sensor and significantly faster recovery than the Pd/SnO2/AAO counterpart upon exposure to 3% H2, with a detection limit as low as 100 ppb at a low operating temperature of 75 °C, alongside good selectivity and stability. Furthermore, the magnetron sputtering fabrication process is scalable and compatible with standard microfabrication, offering a cost-effective route for mass production.