Gas-sensing performance of SnO2-based chemoresistive sensors after irradiation with alpha particles and gamma-rays

SnO2-based chemoresistive sensors were tested for the detection of H2O and CO impurities both before and after exposure to α-particles and γ-rays, assessing their radiation resistance for use in moderately radioactive environments. The materials examined were SnO2 with gold nanoparticles, and a mix of Sn-, Ti-, and Nb-oxides. The performance was evaluated in both an open-ended gas-flow setup and in a gas-loop system. Post-irradiation characterization via scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was performed to assess morphological changes. Preliminary results showed a fast and efficient response of the sensors after irradiation, indicating their suitability for this novel use.