Trace detection of SF6 gas decomposition component H2S based on Pr6O11-In2O3

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF 6 ) from Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) will decompose and produce hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) in the event of equipment failure. Therefore, the detection of H 2 S can determine whether the equipment has malfunctioned. Due to the low concentration of the SF 6 decomposition product H 2 S and its application in industrial environments, sensors must have a low detection limit and rapid response time . Considering that the oxides of rare earth elements can improve the sensing characteristics, praseodymium oxide (Pr 6 O 11 )-indium oxide (In 2 O 3 ) was prepared. The impact of Pr 6 O 11 doping on In 2 O 3 was investigated through characterization methods. To validate its feasibility for use in GIS, the best sensor (F3) exhibits good sensing characteristics for H 2 S in the SF 6 and air ambient. The responses to 10 parts per million (ppm) H 2 S at 190°C were 146.6 in SF 6 and 190.8 in air. In SF 6 ambient, the F3 sensor demonstrated a low detection limit (50 parts per billion (ppb)). The good sensing characteristics are attributed to the doping of rare earth elements, which induces an increase in the proportion of defect oxygen and accelerate the chemical reaction. The sensing characteristics of the material can be attributed to the doping of Pr 6 O 11 and the electronic effect. This study provides a novel approach for detecting H 2 S generated from SF 6 decomposition.