A Flexible, Low-Cost, Miniature Methane Sensor Based on PEDOT:PSS

Abstract

The development of methane sensors with high sensitivity is vital for the safe application of methane. In this work, we developed a new flexible, low cost, miniature methane sensor based on PEDOT:PSS coated screen-printed electrochemical electrodes as a resistive sensor. PEDOT:PSS is used as a sensing electrode, and the presence of methane causes a change in the resistance of the PEDOT:PSS layer. The sensor demonstrates a fast detection time of 10 s, excellent sensitivity of 0.5 pA/ppm, and a wide linear detection range of 600 to 0.8x10 <sup xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">6</sup> ppm. The sensor shows excellent stability and reliability. The detection error is within 2.8% for a single sample, 7.1% for different samples from the same batch, 16% for different batches and different samples, 3.4% for storage for 4 days, and 14% for temperature increase to 70°C. The sensor is simple to prepare, low cost and highly flexible. We anticipate that this work could open up exciting opportunities for the development and application of methane sensors, such as natural gas exploration and identification of methane leaks in mining and kitchens.