A carbon nanotube based ammonia sensor on cellulose paper

Abstract

A single-wall carbon nanotube (CNT) based ammonia sensor was implemented on cellulose paper. Two types of devices were fabricated and compared: CNT-on-paper and a CNT–cellulose composite. The resistance shift of the CNT network upon ammonia exposure was monitored in the chemiresistor approach. The CNT-on-paper showed faster response/recovery and higher sensitivity than the CNT–cellulose composite due to the larger reaction surface. Compared to the control sensor made on a glass substrate, the paper based sensor characteristics exhibited superior uniformity and repeatability. The present approach can be utilized for smart paper featuring low-cost disposable applications.