Gas Sensing Properties of Au Modified SnO2 Micron Rods

Abstract

SnO2 micron rods were prepared via a simple solution phase precursor route and modified with 1 wt% of Au. The products are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gas sensing properties of the materials were tested in an organic glass chamber by mixing target gas into air. The results revealed that the product consists of SnO2 micron rods with diameters of ∼1-3 μm and lengths of ∼15-25 μm. SnO2 micron rods gas sensors exhibit good sensitivity and stability. Compared with pure SnO2 powders, the surface Au sensitization can improve the sensitivity and selectivity of the sensors. The role of Au in SnO2 gas sensor belongs to electronic sensitization. Large-scale synthesis and good sensitivities of SnO2 micron rods indicate the potential applications in gas sensors at the industry level. Keywords: Tin oxide, solution route, micron rods, electronic sensitization