In2O3 nanocubes modified with RuO2 for detection of TXM vapors containing benzyl group

Indium oxide (In 2 O 3 ) nanocubes modified by ruthenium oxide (RuO 2 ) on the surface are successfully prepared through hydrothermal method , calcination and impregnation in turn. The sensing properties of RuO 2 -modified In 2 O 3 sensing material are significantly enhanced even with low loading amount. The response values of RuO 2 -modified In 2 O 3 sensing material to TXM vapor containing benzyl group (including toluene, xylene and mesitylene) increase rapidly when compared to various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therein the RuO 2 -modified In 2 O 3 sensor displays a 36-times increase in response value to mesitylene (100 ppm) in contrast to un-modified one at 255 °C. The optimum operating temperature (OOT) decreases obviously from 375 °C of pristine In 2 O 3 one. The gas sensing enhancement mechanism can be explained by electronic and chemical sensitization. However, the reason for selectivity change will be (temporarily) investigated further later.