Capable of Detecting Leaks at 1ppm Level, New Operating Principle Also Identified

The Korea Institute of Materials Science has developed an ultra-high sensitivity ammonia gas sensor using environmentally friendly perovskite material free of lead. This technology can be applied to safety management of hydrogen and ammonia energy infrastructure, and is evaluated as presenting a new direction in gas sensor research by also identifying a new operating principle for the sensor.

On the 5th, the Korea Institute of Materials Science announced that it has developed an ammonia gas sensor based on lead-free perovskite material through joint research with Pusan National University, Incheon National University, and Macquarie University in Australia.

The sensor can detect ammonia down to minute leaks at the level of 1ppm (one part per million), and the institute explained that the detection operating principle, which had not been previously identified, was newly revealed in this research.

In conventional high-performance gas sensors, lead (Pb)-based perovskite materials have often been utilized, but environmental and safety issues due to lead toxicity have been pointed out as challenges.

In this research, by adopting lead-free perovskite material that does not use lead, the institute demonstrated high sensitivity while reducing environmental burden.

Ammonia is recognized as a key substance in the hydrogen economy as a means of storing and transporting hydrogen.

Conversely, upon leakage it is harmful to human health and the environment, requiring precise detection technology.

The institute projects that this sensor technology will be able to contribute to enhancing the safety of hydrogen and ammonia energy infrastructure in the future.

Inquiries regarding this research can be directed to Dr. Song Myung-gwan, Principal Research Scientist at the Energy and Environmental Materials Research Division, Korea Institute of Materials Science (055-280-3686).