Quantum size effects on the chemical sensing performance of two-dimensional semiconductors

Abstract

We investigate the role of quantum confinement on the performance of gas sensors based on two-dimensional InAs membranes. Pd-decorated InAs membranes configured as H 2 sensors are shown to exhibit strong thickness dependence, with ∼100× enhancement in the sensor response as the thickness is reduced from 48 to 8 nm. Through detailed experiments and modeling, the thickness scaling trend is attributed to the quantization of electrons which favorably alters both the position and the transport properties of charge carriers; thus making them more susceptible to surface phenomena. © 2012 American Chemical Society.