Dispersed SnO2 nanoparticles on MoS2 nanosheets for superior gas-sensing performances to ethanol

The unique properties of MoS2 nanosheets make them a promising supporting substrate for preventing the interparticle aggregation of metal-oxide-semiconductor nanomaterials. Novel composites were successfully obtained by a two-step low temperature hydrothermal method for the synthesis of SnO2 nanoparticles dispersing on the surfaces of MoS2 nanosheets. The morphology and structure of the as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Owing to the supporting substrate of specific two-dimensional MoS2 nanosheets and the superior gas-sensing performance offered by ultrasmall SnO2 nanoparticles, the sensor based on SnO2@MoS2 composites exhibits high response and good selectivity to ethanol gas.