Chemically synthesized ZnO nanocrystal-based ethylene sensor operative at natural humid condition

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a versatile semiconductor material having potential application in sensing areas. Ethylene detection is of great significance in the field of agriculture to reduce losses during the storage of fruits and vegetables. In this study, ZnO nanocrystals were synthesized by the chemical co-precipitation method and utilized as ethylene sensors. ZnO nanocrystal-based sensor demonstrated a large response of 11.7 at room temperature and similar to 70% relative humidity. The limit of detection of the ZnO nanocrystal-based sensor was 10 ppm for ethylene gas. The adsorption performance was simulated via the first-principles study based on the density functional theory to explain the sensing mechanism. The results indicated that the ZnO nanocrystal-based sensor has the potential to be used as a low-cost and efficient ethylene gas sensor.

Automated summary

ZnO nanocrystals were synthesized and used as ethylene sensors in this study. The ZnO nanocrystal-based sensor demonstrated good response at room temperature and relative humidity, showing potential as a low-cost and efficient ethylene gas sensor.