GaO nanomaterials for gas sensing applications

The objective of our study is to reveal whether (- GaO) nanomaterials can detect the presence of a certain gas or a volatile organic compound at room temperature. We have considered methanol as the target gas for our studies. Detection of methanol can provide early warnings of hazardous situations for a timely intervention. We examine the gas-sensing properties of GaO nanostructures that were synthesized using liquid phase precursor method. The nanostructures were studied using analytical techniques like X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and EDX, UV-visible spectroscopy. Experimental results show the formation of - GaO in the nano rod, nanowire form with the diameter ~ 100 nm. - GaO nanostructures’ ability to sense methanol was assessed at room temperature. Measurements were made of the sensor’s response, selectivity, and recovery time under ambient conditions. We have found that the material has viable potential for application as room temperature gas sensor with good sensitivity and reasonably acceptable response time and recovery.