Noble metal Pt-modified ZnO spherical nanoflower for detecting low-concentration isoprene gas

As a characteristic marker of advanced fibrosis, isoprene could be utilized for quick screening of liver disease. In this study, ZnO samples modified with varying molar percentages of Pt, as well as unmodified ZnO, were synthesized using hydrothermal method. The results revealed that the specific surface area (SSA) of the 1 mol% Pt@ZnO was as high as 51.6 m 2 /g and the original porous structure of ZnO was retained. The sensing performance of fabricated Pt@ZnO and ZnO was systematically evaluated, revealing enhanced isoprene detection capability for the 1 mol% Pt@ZnO compared to its unmodified counterpart. At an isoprene concentration of 0.2 ppm, the response time of Pt@ZnO was only 8 s, and the optimal temperature was lowered to 230 °C, facilitating rapid detection of isoprene with low power consumption. In addition, when exposed to 1 ppm isoprene, the 1 mol% Pt@ZnO exhibited a response value of 30.1, representing a threefold over pristine ZnO. Remarkably, the 1 mol% Pt@ZnO demonstrated remarkable sensitivity with a response value of 4.1 at 20 ppb isoprene concentration, while exhibiting superior selectivity towards isoprene compared to ZnO. In conclusion, 1 mol% Pt@ZnO spherical flower-like nanomaterial showed promise as candidate for isoprene gas-sensing applications.