Nanotech used to make flexible sensors

ARGONNE, Ill., Aug. 2 (UPI) -- U.S. Department of Energy scientists used nanotechnology to create flexible sensors for use in fuel cells designed for hydrogen-powered vehicles.

In comparison with previously designed hydrogen sensors, which are rigid and use expensive pure palladium, the new sensors developed at the Argonne National Laboratory are flexible and use single-walled carbon nanotubes to improve efficiency and reduce cost. The development is expected to help to ensure economical benefits as well as environmental and societal safety, researchers said.

The new sensing devices, developed by Yugang Sun and H. Hau Wang, exhibit excellent sensing performance in terms of high sensitivity, fast response time and quick recovery, scientists said. And the use of plastic sheets reduces their overall weight and increases their mechanical flexibility and shock resistance, Sun added.

The sensors can be wrapped around curved surfaces, which proves useful in many applications in vehicles, aircraft and portable electronics.