Methane sensor based on palladium/MWNT nanocomposites

Methane gas sensor was fabricated based on electrocatalytic properties of the Pd/MWNT nanocomposites on indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrates.A linear response for methane was obtained in the range of 0-16% (v/v) with a detection limit of 0.167% (v/v) and R.S.D.of 4.1%.After 100 times sensing or stable stored more than 12 months in atmosphere,unconspicuous measurable decrease was observed.The response time was less than 60 s at room temperature and ambient pressure.Some common potential interferents in samples such as N2,CO,CO2,ethane,propane,pentane,methanol,ethanol,H2 and NH3 were investigated and all the effects were less than 5% on the response for 3.0% (v/v) methane.The sensor was applied to methane determinations in man-made gas samples,the results are satisfied.