Acetaldehyde sensing properties using ultrafine CuO nanoparticles

Uniform and ultrafine CuO nanoparticles were prepared via an easy chemical route. This CuO material was utilized to fabricate a p-type semiconductor sensor device for high performance acetaldehyde sensing properties. The crystal structure and molecular structural fingerprint of CuO were revealed via X-ray diffraction data and Raman spectrum analysis respectively. Morphological studies of CuO were carried out using field emission scanning electron microscopy as well as transmission electron microscopy images. Elemental atomic states in sensor material were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy technique. The CuO sensor exhibits a high response of 2923% towards 100 ppm acetaldehyde at 200 degrees C operating temperature. The lowest acetaldehyde concentration was measured at 10 ppm with the response of 46% for the CuO sensor. The acetaldehyde sensing was tested at different operating temperatures as well as concentrations. Transient response and stability of CuO sensor were also studied. An acetaldehyde sensing mechanism for CuO sensor was discussed.