ZnO–SnO2 branch–stem nanowires based on a two-step process: Synthesis and sensing capability

ZnO–SnO2 branch–stem nanostructures were realized on a basis of a two-step process. In step 1, SnO2-stem nanowires were synthesized. In step 2, ZnO-branch nanowires were successfully grown on the SnO2-stem nanowires through a simple evaporation technique. We have pre-deposited thin Au layers on the surface of SnO2 nanowire stems and subsequently evaporated Zn powders on the nanowires. The ZnO branches, which sprouted from the SnO2 stems, had diameters in a range of 30–35 nm. As-synthesized branches were of single crystalline hexagonal ZnO structures. Since the branch tips were comprised of Au-containing nanoparticles, the Au-catalyzed vapor–liquid–solid growth mechanism was more likely to control the growth process of the ZnO branches. To test a potential use of ZnO–SnO2 branch–stem nanostructures in chemical gas sensors, their sensing performances with respect to NO2 gas were investigated, showing the promising potential in chemical gas sensors.

► Novel synthesis of heterostructures of ZnO–SnO2 branch–stem nanowires.
► The branch–stem nanowire sensor showed reproducible and applicable sensing responses to a very low concentration (1 ppm) of NO2.
► Proposing a VLS growth process as the dominant mechanism for ZnO branches.