TiO2 nanotube-based gas sensor at room temperature
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanotubes were fabricated via anodization process. The surface morphology of the nanotubes was observed using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy. The alcohol-sensing ability at room temperature of the fabricated TiO2 nanotubes was studied using methanol, ethanol and 2-propanol as analyte gases. The response was determined by measuring the electrical resistance of the material. Resistance of TiO2 decreased in the presence of reducing alcohol vapors. Fastest response was observed for methanol while slowest for 2-propanol. Though the sensor showed small changes in resistance values and the response was relatively slow, which can be accounted to the low operating temperature, it was able to respond in the presence of the analyte gases and recover after testing at room temperature.