Gold nanoparticle decorated graphene for efficient sensing of NO2 gas

Abstract

We have devised a method to simultaneously reduce graphene oxide and gold metal ions onto the surface of graphene. The nanohybrid was in-turn used for efficient sensing of NO2 gas. The nanohybrid was characterized using X-ray diffractometry, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV–Visible spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Morphological details revealed the successful growth of gold nanoparticles onto graphene sheets. Considerable variations in electrical characteristics of graphene-Au nanohybrid were recorded upon the exposure of NO2 gas. The sensor showed fast response and recovery time and good response of 3.2 % for 50 ​ppm NO2 gas. The method can pave the way to develop miniaturized gas sensors useful for environmental monitoring.

Keywords

• NO2 gas sensing
• Gold nanoparticles
• Graphene
• Nanohybrids
• Sodium citrate