Solid state synthesis of tin-doped ZnO at room temperature: Characterization and its enhanced gas sensing and photocatalytic properties

► A room temperature solid-state reaction was used to prepare crystalline tin-doped ZnO. ► The obtained products were well-dispersed, which is attributed to the difference in sizes between Zn and Sn atoms and the change of pH value. ► Gas response of sample S4 to ethanol vapor can reach 124. The same sample exhibit photocatalysis characteristics to methyl orange (MO) solution.