Down to ppb level ethanol detection based on heterostructured SnO/rGO composites

In this work, hetero-structured SnO/rGO nanocomposites were synthesized by hydrothermal method using GO raw materials prepared by Hummers' method. The crystal structures, morphologies and microstructures of SnO/rGO nanocomposites were detailedly characterized. Moreover, the gas sensors based on SnO/rGO nanocomposites displayed a high response of 4.76 toward 5 ppm ethanol at 170 degrees C with a fast response time of-20 s, even a relatively high response similar to 2.26 to 400 ppb ethanol. Series of analysis indicated that these excellent performances could be originated from three aspects: 1) the formed pp hetero-junctions between SnO and rGO that separated the carriers, 2) the high conductivity of rGO components that facilitated the transport of electrons, and 3) the functional groups (such as C=O and -COOH) on rGO that enhanced for the absorption sensing of ethanol. (c) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

In this study, hetero-structured SnO/rGO nanocomposites were successfully synthesized and utilized for gas sensors, showing high response values and relatively fast response time towards ethanol. The superior performances may stem from the pp hetero-junctions between different components, high conductivity of rGO, and functional groups on rGO.