Improved selectivity toward methanol detection via Pd-functionalized tungsten trioxide nanofiber gas sensors

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2025

Abstract

Methanol is a widely used yet highly toxic volatile organic compound that poses serious health hazards through inhalation or ingestion, leading to vision impairment, neurological damage, or death. Its frequent presence alongside ethanol in industrial settings and counterfeit alcoholic beverages necessitates highly selective detection strategies to prevent accidental exposure. In this study, palladium-functionalized tungsten trioxide nanofibers (Pd-WO3 NF) were synthesized to selectively detect methanol over ethanol. The nanofibers were synthesized via electrospinning followed by calcination, with Pd incorporated at varying concentrations (1–10 at %). At 350 °C, the sensor with 5 at% Pd loading demonstrated exceptional performance, achieving a response of 20.6 at 10 ppm methanol with a low detection limit (LOD) of 55 ppb, while exhibiting no measurable response to ethanol up to 50 ppm. The Pd decoration not only reduced the operating temperature of the WO3-based methanol gas sensor but also enabled high selectivity and sensitivity through defect engineering and catalytic activation. This study highlights the potential of Pd-functionalized WO3 NF for the development of advanced methanol gas sensors with low power consumption, enhanced selectivity, and robust performance.

Publication Title

Chemical Engineering Journal

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