Long-term monitoring of SF6 decomposition gases and water molecules using TiO2-doped SnSe monolayer for generator circuit breakers

In generator circuit breakers, monitoring the decomposition of Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) gas is a primary method to determine insulation and fault conditions. The presence of SF6 combined with H2O impurities also significantly impacts the degradation of equipment insulation. However, there is a lack of research on the simultaneous monitoring of both SF6 decomposition and H2O. To improve the system’s rapid recoverability, recyclability, and long-term usability, a SnSe monolayer doped with TiO2 nanoparticles (SnSe–TiO2) has been proposed as an SF6 gas decomposer detection sensor with humidity detection capabilities. The SnSe–TiO2 monolayer significantly enhances the conductivity and increases its adsorption energy for H2O (73.2%), H2S (13.54%), HF (59.70%), SO2 (96.33%), and SOF2 (52.04%). Furthermore, this material can be utilized for long-term cyclic gas monitoring as the SnSe–TiO2 monolayer is physically adsorbed to these gases and can be rapidly desorbed. This study establishes a theoretical foundation for the future advancement of gas detection sensors for insulating gases in circuit breakers.