Fabrication of vapor and gas sensors using films of aligned CNx nanotubes

F. Villalpando-Páez, A. H. Romero, E. Muñoz-Sandoval, L. M. Martínez, H. Terrones, M. Terrones

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

177 Scopus citations

Abstract

We have succeeded in sensing rapidly (0.1-0.5 s response), relatively low concentrations of toxic gases, and organic vapors using electric devices integrating films of aligned CNx nanotubes. We demonstrate that CNx nanotubes could be more efficient for monitoring toxic species, when compared to pure carbon nanotubes. This is due to the presence of highly reactive pyridine-like sites on the tube surface. Using ab initio calculations, we confirmed that pyridine-type regions on the tube surface bind strongly to ammonia, acetone and OH groups, thus altering their density of states. CN x nanotubes could be used as fast responsive and reusable sensors.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)137-143
Number of pages7
JournalChemical Physics Letters
Volume386
Issue number1-3
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 1 2004

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Physics and Astronomy
  • Physical and Theoretical Chemistry

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