Functionalized Oligo( $p$ -Phenylenevinylene) and ZnO-Based Nanohybrid for Selective Ammonia Sensing at Room Temperature

This paper demonstrates an electrochemically deposited hybrid gas sensor containing ZnO and functionalized oligo(p -phenylenevinylene). The introduction of the organic moiety onto ZnO leads to an enhancement in the sensitivity. A systematic study using characterization techniques such as energy dispersive X-ray, field emission scanning electron microscope, and X-ray diffraction indicates the key role played by the lamellar structure. As a gas sensor, the response as high as 8.83 at 10 ppm of ammonia have been observed. Also, the excellent selectivity and the response time and recovery time of 9.8s and 17.3s, respectively, at room temperature can effectuate forthcoming high-performance hybrid gas sensor which could be cost-effective and environmentally benign.