Hierarchical bi-dimensional alumina/palladium nanowire nano-architectures for hydrogen detection, storage and controlled release

We report on the fabrication of bi-dimensional alumina/palladium nanowire nanoarchitectures for hydrogen detection, storage and controlled release. This nanostructured material was fabricated by growing the palladium nanowires directly in the nanosized channels of nanoporous alumina membrane followed by atmospheric-plasma jet treatment to fabricate the interconnected surface structure mostly suitable for hydrogenrelated applications such as controlled release and sensing. Several interesting properties are demonstrated, including high sensitivity levels (up to 0.1% of H₂ in air) and short response times. Large resistance response reaching 100% for 0.5% of H₂ in air makes it possible to use the fabricated sensors without complex and expensive amplifying circuits.