Novel one step hydrothermal synthesis of cubic Ia3d large pore 3D mesoporous In2O3/KIT-6 hybrid nanocomposite with humidity sensing applications

Abstract

In2O3 doped KIT-6, a mesoporous hybrid nanocomposite was synthesized using facile hydrothermal method for significant humidity sensing applications at room temperature. The ordered mesoporous framework of hybrid nanocomposite with large surface area and substantial pore volume is analysed using N2 adsorption–desorption curves. The structural insights for 3D-cubic mesoporous arrangement of KIT-6 having Ia3d symmetry is determined through analysis of “powder X-ray diffraction curves, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) visuals, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) imageries and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDXA)”. It was observed that 5 wt% In2O3 loaded in KIT-6 nanocomposite synthesized by hydrothermal channel exhibits excellent sensitivity, relatively negligible hysteresis, swift response/recovery time (17 s/19 s) and magnificent stability in the 11–98% RH range. This work presents the production of mesoporous hybrid nanocomposite having ordered pore framework with significant potential to act as sensing material in fabrication of high-performance practical humidity sensors.