Synergistic modification of CuO nanosheets by graphene oxide and water bath treatment for rapid acetylacetone detection

In this study, CuO nanosheet composites synergistically modified with graphene oxide (GO) and water bath treatment were prepared via a hydrothermal method, which were then explored for the acetylacetone gas sensing capabilities. The response of the CuO/GO-0.4 (70 °C) to 100 ppm acetylacetone is 39.29 at 175 °C, which is 16 times greater than pure CuO, and it achieves a rapid response time of 24 s and shortens the recovery time to 38 s. Moreover, the CuO/GO-0.4 (70 °C) sensor displays remarkable selectivity, repeatability, and long-term stability over a 28-day period. The electronic band structure and density of states for both CuO and CuO/GO were calculated by first-principles calculation. An in-depth discussion of the gas-sensing mechanism towards acetylacetone was provided, highlighting the role of graphene oxide in enhancing charge carrier transport and the increased concentration of oxygen vacancy (O v ) defects in the composite material. This study not only advances the field of gas sensors but also offers a promising route for detecting acetylacetone, which is critical in various industrial and environmental applications.