Potentiometric VOCs detection using 8YSZ based oxygen sensor

Abstract

Solid-state electrochemical sensors for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) based on commercial yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) sheet were fabricated using Pt or Pt covered with SmFeO₃ layers as electrodes. The sensing performances were strongly influenced by the surface morphology of YSZ. The overcoat with SmFeO₃ layer on the one side electrode enhanced the sensitivity for some VOCs. Even for 0.5 ppm of methyl ethyl ketone, ethanol and acetic acid, the changes of the electromotive force (EMF) in the levels of 20 mV and higher were confirmed at 400°C for the monolithic type sensor in which one side electrode was over-coated with SmFeO₃ powders.