Effect of CuO on the morphology and gas sensing property of ZnO
Abstract
Nanostructured film deposit of ammonia (NH₃) sensitive ZnO and ZnOCuO composites were fabricated on graphite electrode via electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The fabrication was carried out at varying deposition potential and constant deposition time at room temperature. The average particle size deposited at 500V for ZnO and ZnO-CuO were 241nm and 260nm; whereas at 750V the average particle size is 195nm and 276nm, respectively. SEM micrographs showed nanocrystalline ZnO and smooth amorphous CuO film deposits. The sensing properties of the deposits were tested using Wheatstone bridge circuit. Deposits with high degree of porosity exhibit high sensitivity. Addition of CuO resulted to a decrease in gas sensitivity. The surface structure of the deposits dictates the sensitivity of the material.