Correlated electron perovskite films for optical sensing applications

Advanced power generation technologies including solid oxide fuel cells require advancements in sensor technologies for efficient operation. Gas sensors for SOFC anode streams must be stable in high temperature and under reducing atmospheres. Optical sensing technologies offer the potential for good stability and sensing response under harsh conditions but are relatively new as compared to alternative sensing approaches and require significant developments in underlying device and enabling materials technology. In this paper, the near infrared optical sensing response of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3, a representative correlated perovskite material, is presented. Hydrogen sensing performance was measured in laboratory scale sensing experiments in the range of 1-4% hydrogen. The effect of oxygen on sensor recovery behavior was also examined. The films show a large, recoverable response to the introduction of hydrogen to the gas stream. The results presented here suggest this unique class of materials is a strong candidate for future sensor development efforts targeted at optical sensor applications but also requires additional fundamental research to understand the mechanistic origin of observed optical sensing responses.