Multi-layer ZnO architectures: Polymer induced synthesis and their application as gas sensors

Novel ZnO multi-layer architectures have been prepared successfully by using poly (sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) (PSS) as structure-directing agent through hydrothermal route. The mass ratio of reactants (Zn(CH3COO)2·2H2O and PSS) plays a critical role on the synthesis of ZnO with different structures. The as-prepared multi-layer architectures are hexagonal profiles and consist of many nanosheets with a 120° angle. The thickness of these nanosheets can be controlled by the mass ratio of reactants. The gas sensing properties of the as-synthesized ZnO multi-layer architectures are investigated in detail. The results indicate that the obtained products exhibit superior response to acetone and ethanol, as well as faster response/recovery times and good reproducibility. Moreover, it is believed that this polymer-induced approach can be extended to fabricate other semiconductor materials with unique morphology or shape.