A study of the catalytic activity and sensitivity to different alcohols of CeO2–Fe2O3 thin films

CeO2–Fe2O3 thin films with different Ce/Fe ratios have been tested as alcohol gas sensors. The microstructure, acid–base properties and reactivity of CeO2–Fe2O3 powders were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), temperature programmed desorption of adsorbed CO2 (TPD-CO2) and gas-phase oxidation of alcohols, respectively. The addition of Ce to Fe2O3 modify the particles size distribution, surface basicity, electrical conductivity and the catalytic activity in the oxidation of methanol and ethanol. These factors have been discussed and correlated with the electrical response of CeO2–Fe2O3 mixed oxides to both alcohols.