Metal-oxide nanoparticles based gas sensor with integrated microheater

Nanomaterials represent nowadays the new frontier of highly sensitive the gas sensors, due to the hight surface-to-volume ratio which drastically enhances the adsorption of the target gases. However, finding the materials able to detect proper target gases is still challenging.

The MSc thesis project, conducted in collaboration with VS Particle, a leader company in nanoparticles (NPs) production by spark ablation [1], aims at investigating nanostructured metal-oxide (MO_x) materials to build up gas sensors able to detect CO₂ and/or volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The architecture of the sensor will involve an integrated micro-hotplate (μhp) to enable the device to work at high temperatures (~200°C).

The candidate will work at both TU Delft (ECTM department) and VS Particle sides. During the stage at the company, the candidate will extensively use the flagship tool of the company, VSP-P1 printer, to deposit the NPs on the device previously fabricated at ECTM.

The characterizations of both MO_x materials and devices as well as the functional tests towards target gases will be conducted at ECTM.

Assignment

This experimental project will involve: 

• an initial extensive literature review of the state-of-the-art on MO_x;
• the concept and design of flow-chart to integrate MO_x NPs and μhp;
• the optimization and realization of the steps for the fabrication of the device;
• the morphological and structural characterization (e.g. SEM, Raman, XPS, XRD) of the deposited MO_x NPs;
• the electrical characterisation of the device and the functional tests of the sensors towards several analytes;
• comprehensive and periodical reporting of the full experimental work.

Requirements

• Ambitiousness towards a challenging project
• Ability and willingness to work independently as well as a good team player in both academic and dynamic industrial environments  
• Hands-on skills
• Scientific mindset

Contact

Last modified: 2024-07-04