Graphene enhance sensing capability of sensors

Graphene, a new member of the carbon nanostructure family, is used as an ideal choice for functionalizing with other materials like metal oxides, metal sulphides and metal nanoparticles for improving their properties. It is because graphene has good electronic conductivity, large specific surface area, high electronic mobility and low electrical noise. Mixing of graphene into ZnFe₂O₄ can lower the operating temperature of the acetone sensors. Graphene-Cu₂O nanocomposites could detect lower concentration of NO₂ even at room temperature. Graphene- SnO₂ nanocomposites have also been employed as room temperature H₂ gas sensors. Graphene decorated ZnO acted as a potential gas sensor at room temperature. A solution-processed gas sensor based on vertically aligned ZnO nanorods on a chemically converted graphene (CCG) film. The prepared sensor device effectively detected 2 ppm of H₂S in oxygen at room temperature. (author)