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BLT Tech-CheckHydrogen Detection Sensors for a Safer Hydrogen Energy Era

12 Sep 2025


With the global transition toward hydrogen energy, hydrogen detection sensors are receiving growing attention. These sensors are used in hydrogen-powered vehicles, refueling stations, and industrial facilities to detect and alert when hydrogen gas leaks occur. Since hydrogen is a flammable gas, and can form explosive mixtures with oxidizing gases (e.g., oxygen), the presence of detection sensors is essential across the entire hydrogen infrastructure.

SENKO Co., Ltd. (CEO: Seungchul Ha) has attracted significant market attention by developing a semi-solid electrolyte material for the mass production of hydrogen detection sensors. In 2021, SENKO secured a 25 billion KRW investment from POSCO Group to support this development. SENKO was the first in the world to successfully commercialize miniature electrochemical gas sensors, and holds approximately 160 patents and certifications related to gas sensing technologies. Its customer base exceeds 1,000 companies globally, with presence in the United States, United Kingdom, India, China, and beyond. SENKO is currently collaborating with Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Seoul National University, and UNIST to develop film-based materials and processes to replace liquid electrolytes—paving the way for further miniaturization. The company is also working on a next-generation MEMS-based chip sensor that integrates micro-electromechanical systems technology.


[Fig] SENKO’s Hydrogen Detection Sensor – Model #SS2178


As interest in hydrogen energy continues to rise, development of hydrogen detection sensors is also accelerating. A leading example is DaeHyun ST Co., Ltd. (CEO: Joohong Um), which successfully developed a hydrogen sensor capable of detecting concentrations ranging from low ppm levels to 100% using a multi-layer ultrathin alloy catalyst-electrode. The company is also developing colorimetric hydrogen sensors that remain functional under extreme environments (60°C/90%, 85°C/85%). Government-funded research institutes are also active in this field. The Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology has developed a sensor capable of detecting trace hydrogen gas using tin oxide and advanced electrodes. Similarly, the Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science has developed a sensor using MoS₂ nanobranch materials, achieving detection sensitivity as high as parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels. Clearly, hydrogen sensors are evolving rapidly to support the growing hydrogen economy.


[Fig] Hydrogen Sensor Developed by DaeHyun ST Capable of Detecting Low to High Concentrations


In November 2022, the Korean government announced a national agenda titled "Establishing a Clean Hydrogen Supply Chain and Leading the Global Hydrogen Industry". To achieve this, it introduced three policy directions for the hydrogen economy. To support this framework, the government is implementing a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) system for hydrogen power generation.


[Fig] Korean Government’s Vision for Building a Clean Hydrogen Ecosystem


The government and its policies are accelerating the shift toward a hydrogen-based industrial ecosystem. The transition to hydrogen energy is now viewed as an irreversible transformation in the global energy landscape. Companies must respond proactively to stay ahead in this paradigm shift.



#HydrogenSensor  #HydrogenLeakDetection #CleanHydrogen  #HydrogenVehicles #HydrogenRefuelingStations


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Company.

BLT Patent & Law Firm


Business Reg No.

752-86-01744


CEO.

Cheolhyun Yoo

Head office.

1F, 25, Beobwon-ro 3-gil, Seocho-gu, Seoul,

06595 Republic of Korea


T. +82-2-514-0104

F. +82-70-4855-0102

E. info@blt.kr


Branch office.

26F, 165, Convensia-daero (POSCO Tower Building),

Yeonsu-gu, Incheon (Stage9 Songdo POSCO Tower)


T. +82-32-710-5104

F. +82-70-4855-0102

E. info@blt.kr


ⓒ 2025. BLT Patent & Law Firm All Rights Reserved.