Highly sensitive methanol chemical sensor based on undoped silver oxide nanoparticles prepared by a solution method

We have prepared silver oxide nanoparticles (NPs) by a simple solution method using reducing agents in alkaline medium. The resulting NPs were characterized by UV-vis and FT-IR spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. They were deposited on a glassy carbon electrode to give a sensor with a fast response towards methanol in liquid phase. The sensor also displays good sensitivity and long-term stability, and enhanced electrochemical response. The calibration plot is linear (r (2) = 0.8294) over the 0.12 mM to 0.12 M methanol concentration range. The sensitivity is 2.65 mu Acm(-2) mM(-1), and the detection limit is 36.0 mu M (at a SNR of 3). We also discuss possible future prospective uses of this metal oxide semiconductor nanomaterial in terms of chemical sensing.