Improving the Performance of Titanium Oxide Nanocomposites as NO2 Gas Sensors for Optimum Sensitivity

Abstract

     In this study, we investigate the performance improvement of titanium oxide (TiO₂) nanocomposites as NO₂ gas sensors for optimum sensitivity. The TiO₂ nanocomposites were synthesized using a solvothermal method and were modified with different dopants and additives to enhance their sensing properties. The sensing performance of the TiO₂ nanocomposites was evaluated in terms of sensitivity, selectivity, response time, and recovery time. The synthesized nanocomposites were successfully characterized using AFM, FTIR, SEM-EDX and XRD techniques. The results showed that the addition of additives such as TiO₂/GO, TiO₂-Ag/GO and TiO₂- Al₂O₃/GO: TiO₂/GO significantly improved the sensing properties of the TiO₂ nanocomposites. The Ag-doped TiO₂ nanocomposites exhibited the highest sensitivity towards NO₂ gas with a very low detection limit. The Al₂O₃-doped TiO₂ nanocomposites showed good selectivity towards NO₂ gas compared to other interfering gases and has led to increase in the surface area. In conclusion, the addition of additives and the optimization of the annealing temperature can significantly improve the sensing properties of TiO₂ nanocomposites towards NO₂ gas. The findings of this study can contribute to the development of highly sensitive and selective NO₂ gas sensors for various applications such as environmental monitoring and industrial safety.