Design and fabrication of quick responsive and highly sensitive LPG sensor using ZnO/SnO2 heterostructured film

Abstract

Highly efficient LPG sensor working at room temperature was developed using a simple and cost-effective route. For this purpose, ZnO/SnO2 heterostructure was synthesized using the hydrothermal route and thin films of the material were prepared. X-ray Diffraction revealed all the crystal parameters including grain size, texture coefficient, dislocation densities, surface area which are necessary for a sensor. Also, particle size, zeta potential, and conductivity were observed using nanozetasizer. Heterojunctions at the surface of the film were viewed by Scanning electron microscopy. An optical band-gap of ∼3.85 eV was measured using UV–vis absorption spectrum. Further, the film was used as room ambient sensor for different concentrations of LPG. Among them, the best sensor response and sensitivity of 276.51 and 3.78 respectively were obtained for 2.0 vol% of LPG whereas minimum response and recovery time of 10 s and 15 s were obtained for 0.5 vol% of LPG.