The first sensor that makes hydrogen visible

Researchers at the Friedrich-Alexander University (FAU) have come up with a way to make it invisible to the unarmed

hydrogen gas is visible to the eye, this will reduce the risksfires and explosions. A key element of their research is supraparticles - tiny particles that change color as soon as they approach hydrogen. The results of the work were published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials.

To improve safety when working withhydrogen, the researchers studied the fundamental mechanisms of operation required for an innovative hydrogen sensor based on a concept developed at the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research ISC in Würzburg. It is made up of tiny particles and can make hydrogen gas visible to the naked eye without electricity or sophisticated equipment.

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Supraparticles range in size from one to tenmicrometers and contain a violet indicator dye. When it comes into contact with hydrogen, the dye molecules react and visibly change color in two steps. If the sensor turns pink, then hydrogen has leaked once. If the hydrogen leak continues, it becomes colorless. The instant response makes leaks visible and allows them to be detected in real time. Another advantage of the innovative hydrogen sensor is its small size.

“This knowledge about the operation of the new particle systemwill allow us to continue optimizing superparticles until we can realize their full potential, implement them in real applications and contribute to a safer hydrogen economy,” explain the lead authors of the study.

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