Combined amperometric and potentiometric hydrogen sensors based on BaCe0.7Zr0.1Y0.2O3−δ proton-conducting ceramic

Abstract

The present study aims at the potential application of BaCe0.7Zr0.1Y0.2O3−δ proton-conducting material as an electrolyte for hydrogen sensor operating under potentiometric and amperometric modes. The reason of selection of BaCe0.7Zr0.1Y0.2O3−δ composition is caused by optimal combination of target properties, including acceptable stability and thermal properties of the material as well as high proton conductivity. The dense electrolyte materials were used as a base of the electrochemical cells of the sensor and then sensor’s electrochemical properties were measured under different H2-containing atmospheres and temperatures. The obtained results demonstrate the response of the hydrogen sensor in both modes of operation. Its operability was confirmed by comparing the experimental data with theoretical predictions. The sensor based on the BaCe0.7Zr0.1Y0.2O3−δ proton-conducting electrolyte can be successfully used for the detection of hydrogen content (0.1–10 vol.%) in nitrogen at the temperature range between 450 and 550°C.