Resistance-driven low power H2S sensors based on MWCNT@CuO heterojunction

Abstract

Low power, high sensitivity, and selectivity chemiresistive gas sensors are in urgent demand for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) detection to protect human health and the world's ecosystem. In this study, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and copper oxide (CuO) submicrometer size particles’ compositions were utilized to fabricate low-temperature H2S gas sensors, which were prepared using a screen-printing technique on inter-digited patterned SiO2/Si substrates. The heterostructure of MWCNT@CuO was confirmed through high-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis and x-ray diffraction patterns. The x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis reveals the chemical states, binding energies, and oxygen vacancy (Ov). Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis of nitrogen physisorption analysis was conducted on the samples to analyze sensor surface areas and pore size distribution. The as-fabricated MWCNT@CuO sensor shows a relative response (ΔR/R%) of 73% toward 10 ppm H2S at 50 °C temperature in a selective manner, which is 1.6 times higher than that of devices based on bare CuO. The MWCNT@CuO interface modifies the morphology and also constructs a p–p heterojunction. This leads to the reforming of the band structure and results in a low resistance of the matrix, as well as a high chemisorbed oxygen content. The use of metal oxide semiconductors with MWCNTs offers a promising approach for the development of high-performance gas sensors that are energy-efficient.