Two-dimensional SnS nanoflakes: synthesis and application to acetone and alcohol sensors

Abstract

SnS nanoflakes were synthesized using a solid state reaction method at 600 °C and their gas sensing properties were investigated.

Abstract

SnS nanoflakes were synthesized using a solid state reaction method at 600 °C and their gas sensing properties were investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) analysis revealed the formation of a pure, polycrystalline, orthorhombic phase of SnS nanoflakes. The response of the SnS nanoflakes sensor to reducing gases such as acetone and alcohols (ethanol, methanol and 1-butanol) was measured from 25 °C to 200 °C. The response of the SnS nanoflakes sensor was highest for acetone (∼1000% at 100 °C). It was determined that the optimal operating temperature of the SnS nanoflakes sensor was 100 °C for acetone and 1-butanol. Fast response and recovery times of these sensors were observed for all gases. With an increase in temperature from 25 °C to 200 °C, response and recovery times of the SnS nanoflakes sensor were improved for all gases. Finally, the SnS nanoflakes sensor characteristics have been compared to the characteristics of other metal oxide/sulphide nanostructure sensors reported in previous studies. Moreover, the SnS nanoflakes sensor showed good stability and reproducibility at 100 °C for acetone. As acetone in human breath is a marker for diagnosis of diabetes, this work demonstrates a possible use of SnS nanoflakes in diabetes diagnosis.