A novel solution for hydrogen monitoring in fusion processes: 3D printed BaCe0.6Zr0.3Y0.1O3-α sensors

The control of tritium (3H) in liquid-based tritium breeding blankets (TBBs) is one of the key points to assure their correct performance to prove the 3H sufficiency. For that, electrochemical sensors are a good option for tritium quantification since they can perform in-situ and online measurements.One of the multiple challenges for hydrogen detection is to find suitable materials that can operate at high temperatures and in harsh environments. In this context, perovskite-type ceramics, such as BaCe0.6Zr0.3Y0.1O3-α (BCZY), have elevated proton conductivity and exceptional stability even in reducing atmospheres and at elevated temperatures, which make them strong contenders for high-temperature hydrogen sensing applications.In the present study, we describe the development of a dual-mode hydrogen sensors based on 3D-printed BCZY, which allows a high degree of design flexibility. Crucible geometries were tested and characterized using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Electrochemical sensors were constructed and characterized at 400, 450 and 500 °C in both, amperometric and potentiometric configuration. The results demonstrated the capability of 3D-printed BCZY sensors for hydrogen detection in fusion reactors, offering a breakthrough solution for monitoring fusion processes.