Rapid CO detection using MWCNTs/SnO2 hierarchical structure: synthesis, characterization, and RT gas sensing features

Abstract

Industrialization, modernization, and heavy car populations cause an extensive release of hazardous gases which impact the environment and human health. In this respect, employing gas sensors for detecting different concentrations of carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and other harmful gases is being advanced with much interest and necessity. In our current work, we have feasibly synthesized MWCNTs/SnO2 hierarchical structure through a hydrothermal process. The attained XRD diffraction pattern reflects the crystallinity with a crystallite size <10 nm. The FTIR results signify the presence of the functional group which verifies the successful interaction and connection for the composite network. Morphological features using SEM, HRTEM depict the hierarchical structure persistence. The adsorption/desorption curves are investigated using BET analysis acquiring a surface area of 189 cc/g. Numerous gases were included in the gas sensing study such as ethanol, methanol, acetone, ammonia, CO, and CO2. The sensing performance displays a remarkable result for carbon monoxide (CO) detection. The response time for CO detection was 5 s, while the recovery was 7s for 300 ppm at RT. The improved selectivity of CO amongst ethanol, CO2 and other gases is demonstrated. The proposed CO sensing structure combines feasible approach, low-cost, room temperature operation, and fast response/recovery times. The structure is promising for CO gas detection for versatile industrial applications.