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

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.