An Alternative Approach for the Synthesis of Zinc Aluminate Nanoparticles for CO and Propane Sensing Applications

We implemented a simple and inexpensive aqueous sol-gel process to synthesize ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles to study its potential application as a gas sensor. Compared to traditional ceramic methods, the synthesis was conducted at lower temperatures and reaction times (5 h from 200 degrees C). The crystalline evolution of the oxide was investigated. The effect of the calcination temperature (200-1000 degrees C) on the crystallites' size (16-29 nm) and the ZnAl2O4 powder's surface morphology was also analyzed. Measurements confirmed the formation of bar-shaped granules (similar to 0.35 mu m) made up of nanoparticles (similar to 23 nm). The surface area of the powders was 60 m(2)/g. Pellets were made from the powders and tested in sensing carbon monoxide and propane gases, showing a high sensitivity to such gases. The sensor's response increased with increasing temperature (25-300 degrees C) and gas concentration (0-300 ppm). The oxide showed a higher response in propane than in carbon monoxide. We concluded that the ZnAl2O4 is a good candidate for gas sensing applications.

Automated summary

We used a simple and cost-effective sol-gel process to synthesize ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles for potential gas sensor applications. The synthesis was conducted at lower temperatures and reaction times compared to traditional ceramic methods. The crystalline evolution, size, and surface morphology of the nanoparticles were analyzed with varying calcination temperatures. The ZnAl2O4 nanoparticles showed high sensitivity to carbon monoxide and propane gases, making them a promising candidate for gas sensing applications.