Synthesis of Bi2O2CO3/In(OH)3·xH2O nanocomposites for isopropanol sensor with excellent performances at low temperature

The ability to detect a volatile organic compound in real-time, such as isopropanol (IPA) gas, is critical for human health and safety protection, especially since the sensor can operate at low temperatures and behave outstanding sensing performances. Herein, the Bi2O2CO3/In(OH)3·xH2O nanocomposites are synthesized using a two-step hydrothermal process, particularly the surfaces of Bi2O2CO3 (BCO) nanosheets were embellished with In(OH)3·xH2O nanoparticles. It is found that the BCO/In(OH)3·xH2O sensors exhibit an excellent response of 20.39, wide concentration detection range from 1 to 1000 ppm, the working temperature as low as 100 ºC, and the rapid response/recovery times of 5 s and 4 s towards 100 ppm IPA. On the other hand, the selectivity of the BCO/In(OH)3·xH2O sensor towards IPA is eye-catching. In particular, the enhanced IPA sensing performances might be attributed to the large specific area (52.46 m2/g). The increased conductivity of BCO/In(OH)3·xH2O nanocomposites due to incorporation of the In(OH)3·xH2O, which can significantly promote the surface-catalyzed reaction between oxygen species such as O- and IPA molecules.