Multiple sensor array based on ZnO nanowires for electronic nose applications towards toxic gases

Abstract

Fabrication of multiple sensor array (MSA) based on ZnO nanowire (NW) for electronic nose applications towards toxic gases has been demonstrated. ZnO NWs were successfully synthesised by hydrothermal method. MSA were realized by modifying the surface with a thin layer of different sensitizers namely Ni, Co, Mg and Fe using physical vapour deposition (PVD). The gas sensing properties of the MSA towards toxic gases such as H2S, NO2, NH3 and CO have been investigated and the data repository was prepared for different gas concentrations. Finally the results were interpreted using the simplest pattern recognition algorithm namely bar chart. Our results indicate that the MSA could qualitatively differentiate the four gases under investigations.