Understanding Fundamental Mechanisms in Gas Sensing to Aid Future Design

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Semiconducting Gas Sensors have been studied for over 60 years and are routinely used as early detection systems against life threatening gases such as CO2, CO and CH4. Despite these 60 years of research, the field relies almost entirely on two semiconductor systems, SnO2 and WO3. Compounding this, the fundamental mechanisms that underpin their performance as gas sensors are still not well understood. In this study, we will use a combination of computational chemistry techniques and advanced spectroscopic techniques to provide new insights into the mechanisms occurring on the surface of these semiconductors under operating conditions. We will use these insights to yield design criteria for transforming other semiconducting oxides into efficient gas sensors, ensuring the UK remains world leading in this area.