Kugalur Shanmugam Ranjith, Sonam Sonwal, Ali Mohammadi, Ganji Seeta Rama Raju, Yun Suk Huh, Young-Kyu Han
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
The design of hierarchical heterostructures that can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at room temperature with good selectivity, sensitivity, and humidity tolerance is an intriguing and practically useful area of research. In this study, Pt@SnS2/MXene with a 0D@2D/2D hybrid structure was successfully fabricated by selectively etching Ti3C2Tx MXene with HF and following this with SnS2 solvothermal growth and finally decorating with Pt nanoparticles. Decoration of few layered vertically grown SnS2 nanoflakes with rich active sites provided an electron reservoir that promoted the selectivity, conductivity, and stability of the MXene-based ternary heterostructure during sensing applications. Post-functionalization with trimethoxypropylsilane (TES) formed a monolayer on the ternary heterostructure of Pt@SnS2/MXene by self-assembly, improved moisture resistance and sensitivity, and maximized sensor durability. Interfacial contact of the TES functionalized mixed metal interface facilitated charge transport and the spectral separation required for NH3 sensing at room temperature (Ra/Rg = 22.7, 10 ppm NH3), which was 14.2, 12.6, 8.1, and 3.3-fold greater higher than those of MXene, SnS2, SnS2/MXene, and Pt@SnS/MXene, respectively. The functionalized heterostructure exhibited high response, remarkable relative response (98.7%), a low theoretical detection limit (23 ppb), and long-term stability (nearly 30 days). Furthermore, TES functionalization protected the sensor from humidity and the sensor sensitivity was ascribed to a Schottky barrier and p–n junction at the Pt@SnS2/MXene heterostructure interface. Superior sensing responses were retained at various humidity levels due to the hydrophobicity of TES alkyl chains. In addition, TES captured free electrons on the sensing surface, and thus, maximized the width of the electron depletion layer. The functionalized Pt@SnS2/MXene heterostructure-based template offers a potential means of constructing highly sensitive and durable gas sensors suitable for practical NH3 responsive, flexible wearable electronics.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Materials Chemistry A, B & C covers a wide range of high-quality studies in the field of materials chemistry, with each section focusing on specific applications of the materials studied. Journal of Materials Chemistry A emphasizes applications in energy and sustainability, including topics such as artificial photosynthesis, batteries, and fuel cells. Journal of Materials Chemistry B focuses on applications in biology and medicine, while Journal of Materials Chemistry C covers applications in optical, magnetic, and electronic devices. Example topic areas within the scope of Journal of Materials Chemistry A include catalysis, green/sustainable materials, sensors, and water treatment, among others.