Selective gas sensors using graphene and CuO nanorods

This work reports on the fabrication of sensitive and selective gas sensors fabricated using graphene and/or copper oxide (CuO) nanorods. Herein, three batches of sensors were produced based on graphene/SiO2/Si, CuO nanorods, and graphene/SiO2/Si decorated with CuO nanorods. The nanorods were synthesized chemically and deposited on either graphene/SiO2/Si or glass substrates. The produced sensors were tested against H2S and H2 gases. Sensors based on CuO/graphene/SiO2/Si were found to be selective to H2S and sensitive to concentrations as low as 10 ppm. Furthermore, the sensors could detect H2S at room temperature which indicates their low power consumption. The produced sensors have potential for applications in industries that include release of H2S such as petroleum refineries.