Room-Temperature Ammonia Gas Sensing Using Mixed-Valent CuCo2O4 Nanoplatelets: Performance Enhancement through Stoichiometry Control

We report the sensing properties of an interesting ternary oxide CuCo2O4 (CCO) which comprises two earth-abundant transition elements, both capable of supporting multiple valence states. We have used a synthesis protocol, which renders unique nanoplatelet-type morphology but with a degree of biphasic character (CuO as a secondary phase in addition to the defect-spinel Cu1–xCo2O4). This sample constitution can be controlled through the use of cation off-stoichiometry, and the same also influence the sensing response significantly. In particular, a Co 10 at. % excess CCO (CCO–Co(10)) case exhibits a good response (∼7.9% at 400 ppm) for NH3 gas with a complete recovery at room temperature (23 °C, ±1 °C) in 57% RH. The material performance was investigated for other gases such as H2S, NO2, and CO. A good response is observed for H2S and NO2 gases but without a recovery; however, for CO, a poor response is noted. Herein, we discuss the specific results for ammonia sensing for the CCO–Co(10) case in detail via the use of different characterizations and outline the difference between the cases of the single-phase defect-stabilized material versus nonpercolating biphasic material.