Hydrogen sensor could help unlock clean energy

The operation of the organic semiconductor sensor relies on a process known as ‘p-doping’, where oxygen molecules increase the concentration of positive electrical charges in the active material. When hydrogen is present, it reacts with the oxygen, reversing this effect and causing a rapid drop in electrical current. 

The change is fast and reversible from room temperature up to 120°C, according to Thomas Anthopoulos, the Manchester University  scientist who led the development. Published in the journal Nature Electronics, the research was conducted in collaboration with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.

“This sensor could offer a breakthrough in hydrogen safety technology,” said Anthopoulos, Professor of Emerging Optoelectronics at Manchester.

“By combining affordability, reliability, and high performance, it has the potential to transform how we handle hydrogen across industries, homes, and transportation. I hope our organic sensor will help build trust in emerging hydrogen technologies, making them more accessible and safer for everyone.”