Layered structures based on Ga2O3/GaS0.98Se0.02 for gas sensor applications

Abstract

Efficient detection of toxic and flammable vapors remains a major technological challenge, especially for environmental and industrial applications. This paper reports on the fabrication technology and gas-sensing properties of nanostructured Ga2O3/GaS0.98Se0.02. The β-Ga2O3 nanowires/nanoribbons with inclusions of Ga2S3 and Ga2Se3 microcrystallites were obtained by thermal treatment of GaS0.98Se0.02 slabs in air enriched with water vapors. The microstructure, crystalline quality, and elemental composition of the obtained samples were investigated using electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy. The obtained structures show promising results as active elements in gas sensor applications. Vapors of methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (C2H5OH), and acetone (CH3-CO-CH3) were successfully detected using the nanostructured samples. The electrical signal for gas detection was enhanced under UV light irradiation. The saturation time of the sensor depends on the intensity of the UV radiation beam.