Influence of iron addition on ethanol and CO sensing properties of tin oxide prepared with the RGTO technique

Effects of iron introduction in RGTO prepared tin oxide gas sensors are presented. The films were deposited by sputtering from a tin target with the introduction of an adjustable number or iron inset. Iron content was varied in the range 0–7%. The thin films are investigated by the volt-amperometric technique for electrical and gas-sensing properties. The layers are capable of sensing CO and ethanol, no evidence of surface poisoning is detected, and recovery of the resistance is complete. The response of the sensors is stable and reproducible at all operating temperatures tested (200–500 °C) during 3 months of operation.