Evaluation of the effects of Au addition into ZnFe2O4 nanostructures on acetone detection capabilities

Abstract Spinel type zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4) nanostructured based sensors are conducive to the detection of volatile organic compounds. However, their poor sensing capabilities hinder practical application. Herein, we produced pure ZnFe2O4 and Au modified ZnFe2O4 nanostructures to evaluate the effects of ZnFe2O4 surface modification towards acetone detection. The pure and Au modified ZnFe2O4 nanostructures were facilely prepared using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal approach. Successful incorporation of Au into ZnFe2O4 NPs and the subsequent influence on ZnFe2O4 nanostructure was evaluated by X-ray diffraction, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Comparative gas sensing analysis between the pure and Au modified ZnFe2O4 based sensors demonstrated that the modified sensor exhibited high response and selectivity towards acetone (C3H6O) at an operating temperature of 120 °C compared to the pure sensor owing to a high concentration of defects and sensitization effects.