Synthesis and characterization of ZnO–TiO₂ nanocomposite and its application as a humidity sensor

Abstract

A detailed study is reported of the synthesis and characterization of a ZnO–TiO₂ nanocomposite and its application as a humidity sensor. Variations of resistance with relative humidity have been observed. The sensitivity of the sensor at different temperatures has also been calculated. Scanning electron micrographs and X-ray diffraction patterns of the sensing material were obtained at different temperatures. The minimum size of nanoparticles is found to be 50 nm at room temperature (19°C). The highest sensitivity observed at room temperature was 18 MΩ/%RH. Kelvin radii, which are the radii of pores, have also been studied; their average value at ambient temperature (19°C) is found to be 8.35 Å.

Keywords:

• humidity sensors
• nanomaterials
• surface morphology
• adsorption