Synthesis and characterizations of highly responsive H₂S sensor using p-type Co₃O₄ nanoparticles/nanorods mixed nanostructures

High-quality p-type semiconducting Co₃O₄ with mixed morphology of nanoparticles/nanorods are synthesized using a hydrothermal route for high response and selective hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) sensor application. XRD and Raman studies revealed the crystal structure and molecular bonding for obtained Co₃O_4, respectively. The nanoparticles/nanorods-like structures were confirmed for Co₃O₄ using FESEM and TEM analysis. The EDS and XPS spectra analysis were carried out for elemental composition and chemical atomic states of Co₃O₄. The Co₃O₄ sensor is investigated for gas sensing properties in dynamic conditions. The sensor exhibited the highest selectivity towards H₂S among various hydrogen-contained gases at 225 °C. The sensor revealed a high response of 357% and 44% for 100 and 10 ppm H₂S gas concentrations, respectively. The Co₃O₄ sensor exhibited a systematic dynamic resistance response for 100–10 ppm range H₂S gas. The excellent dynamic resistance repeatability of the sensor was shown towards 25 ppm H₂S gas. The response of Co₃O₄ sensor was investigated at different operating temperatures and H₂S concentrations. The sensor stability and H₂S sensing mechanism for the Co₃O₄ sensor have been reported. Highly uniform and mixed nanostructures of Co₃O₄ can be the potential sensor material for real-time high-performance H₂S sensor application.