Tamm Plasmon Resonance-Enhanced Infrared Sensor for Hydrogen Detection: Numerical and Experimental Insights

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optical Sensing
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Hydrogen (H2) detection is crucial for sustainable energy. Optical sensors offer remote interrogation and safety advantages over traditional methods.
• Plasmonic sensors are sensitive but costly due to noble metal use and often lack optimal infrared resonance for remote sensing.
• Existing sensors may have limitations in cost, spectral range, and specificity for hydrogen gas detection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a cost-effective and highly sensitive optical sensor for hydrogen (H2) detection using Tamm Plasmon Resonance (TPR).
• To achieve a well-defined resonance band in the ideal infrared range (1500-1600 nm) for remote interrogation.
• To investigate a novel sensor architecture utilizing dielectric materials and a palladium-sensitive layer to reduce costs and enhance performance.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulations using the Transfer-Matrix Method to optimize layer thicknesses, incidence angle, and light polarization for H2 sensitivity.
• Fabrication of a polymer-protected TPR sensor comprising SiO2, TiO2, and palladium layers.
• Experimental characterization of the sensor's response to H2, including wavelength shift, response time, and cross-sensitivity analysis.

Main Results:

• The fabricated sensor exhibited a resonance band at 1572 nm, suitable for infrared remote sensing.
• A significant wavelength shift of 9.5 nm was observed for 4 vol % H2 concentration.
• The sensor demonstrated a rapid response time of 30 s, no cross-sensitivity to methane or ammonia, and high stability over eight days.

Conclusions:

• The developed polymer-protected TPR sensor offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional plasmonic sensors for hydrogen detection.
• The sensor's performance in the infrared spectral range highlights the potential of TPR structures for advanced gas sensing applications.
• This work opens new possibilities for remote, sensitive, and stable optical hydrogen sensing.