The sensing response of pure and SnO 2 activated Cr 2 O 3 to ethanol vapours and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has been investigated. Fine particles of commercial chromium oxide powder were selected and deposited as thick film to act as a gas sensor. The sensor surface has been activated by tin dioxide, on surface oxidation of tin chloride. The concentration of tin chloride solution, used as activator, was varied from 0 to 5% and its effect on gas response, selectivity and operating temperature has been studied. It was found that response to ethanol vapours significantly improved, whereas response to LPG remained unaffected. Moreover, operating temperature remains unchanged both for LPG and ethanol vapours.