Ultrasensitive and highly selective gas sensors using three-dimensional tungsten oxide nanowire networks

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) tungsten oxide nanowire networks have been demonstrated as a high-surface area material for building ultrasensitive and highly selective gas sensors. Utilizing the 3D hierarchical structure of the networks, high sensitivity has been obtained towards NO2, revealing the capability of the material to detect concentration as low as 50ppb (parts per billion). The distinctive selectivity at different working temperatures is observed for various gases. The results highlight that the nanobelts (nanowires) technology can be adopted for the development of gas sensors with performances suitable for practical applications.