Fast response/recovery performance of comb-like Co3O4 nanostructure

Abstract

A new type of comb-like architecture with a hierarchical structure was prepared via a simple and effective hydrothermal strategy in the case of Co3O4. FESEM and TEM confirm the comb-like architecture of the hierarchical structure, and that the Co3O4 nanorods with secondary nanostructures are the building units. The studies of the sensing performance demonstrate that the as-synthesized comb-like Co3O4 nanostructures show excellent catalytic activity upon exposure to CO gases in comparison with rod-like Co3O4. Importantly, the comb-like Co3O4 nanostructure-based sensor shows a fast response and recovery speed for CO gas. It is believed that the strategy of combining the hierarchical nanostructure and catalytic activity of Co3O4 nanomaterials can further provide potential for applications as real-time monitoring gas sensors.