Nanomaterials for gas sensing: a review of recent research

Purpose - This paper aims to provide a detailed review of gas sensor research which exploits the properties of nanomaterials and nanostructures. Design/methodology/approach - Following an introduction, this paper discusses developments in gas sensors based on carbon nanotubes, titanium dioxide nanotubes, graphene, nanocrystalline diamond and a range of metal oxide nanomaterials. It concludes with a discussion of this research and its commercial potential and a list of references to the research considered in the main text. Findings - Gas sensors based on a multitude of nanomaterials are the subject of a global research effort which has generated an extensive literature. Prototype devices have been developed which respond to numerous important gases at concentrations which correspond well with industrial requirements. Other critical performance characteristics have been studied extensively and the results suggest commercial prospects for these technologies. Originality/value - This paper provides details of the highly topical field of nanomaterial-based gas sensor research.