Remote detection of gaseous hydrocarbons by a fiber-optic sensor using an oxide photocatalyst

L. L. Khomutinnikova, E. P. Bykov, I. K. Meshkovskiĭ, S. K. Evstropiev, K. V. Dukelskii, S. A. Plyastsov

ITMO University, 197101, St. Petersburg, Russia
JSC Vavilov State Optical Institute, 192171, St. Petersburg, Russia
St. Petersburg State Institute of Technology (Technical University), 190013, St. Petersburg, Russia

Abstract: Technique for the detection of gaseous hydrocarbons using a remotely interrogated fiber-optic sensor with the oxide photocatalyst was demonstrated. This specially developed ZnO–SnO₂–Fe₂O₃ material can generate reactive oxygen species when exposed to light with wavelength λ_ex = 405 nm. Volatile hydrocarbons vapors detection in air with volume concentration from 6 to 50% is based on measuring the temperature changes during the exothermic photocatalytic oxidation. Temperature variation was recorded by a fiber Bragg grating sensor and was about 2°C.

Keywords: hydrocarbons, fiber Bragg grating, photocatalyst, fiber-optic sensor, photocatalytic oxidation, remote sensing.

Received: 20.10.2023