ZIF-8/SnO₂ based high sensitivity ethylene gas sensor with Au-GO doped

Metal oxide semiconductor gas sensors exhibit significant advantages in gas detection due to their high sensitivity and low cost. However, challenges such as poor selectivity and insufficient stability remain critical scientific issues. In this study, tin dioxide nanomaterials with a unique structure were successfully synthesized using ZIF-8 as a template. Further modification with gold-decorated reduced graphene oxide yielded a nanocomposite that demonstrated rapid response, high sensitivity, and excellent selectivity for low-concentration ethylene detection. The crystal structure, morphology, elemental composition, and pore size distribution of the materials were systematically characterized using XRD, FESEM, EDS, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and N₂ adsorption-desorption analysis. Gas sensing tests revealed that the sensor exhibited a response value of 5.35 to 20 ppm C₂H₄ at an optimal operating temperature of 280 °C, with response and recovery times of 14 s and 17 s, respectively. The selectivity ratio for ethylene over the second most sensitive gas was 3.26, highlighting its superior specificity. Additionally, the sensor demonstrated good stability and repeatability, providing a cost-effective solution for real-time ethylene monitoring in humid environments.