A generic approach for controlled synthesis of In2O3 nanostructures for gas sensing applications

Large-scale synthesis of In2O3 nanoparticles, nanowires and nanorods were realized by improved chemical vapor deposition method on Au-coated silicon substrate. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed that the flow of carrier argon gas has profound effect on the shape and morphology of In2O3 nanostructures. Detailed structural analysis showed that the In2O3 nanostructures are single crystalline with a cubic crystal structure. Room temperature PL spectrum showed broad and intense blue emission at 375 nm. The In2O3 nanowires sensor can successfully detect hydrogen gas with response time as low as 50 s at 250 °C.