Synthesis and Characterization of ZnO Nanorods by the Hydroxide Route and Their Application as Humidity Sensors

ZnO nanorods have been synthesized through the hydroxide route, and to that, 10% glass powder was mixed. Pellets of powder were made and exposed to humidity. It is observed that as Relative Humidity (RH%) inside the chamber increases from 5% to 95%, resistance of pellets decreases successively. Further pellets were annealed for 3 hours at temperatures of 150°C, 300°C, 450°C and 550°C in an electric furnace successively. After each and every time of annealing, pellets were exposed to humidity and variations in resistance with humidity have been observed. SEM, XRD and percentage weight loss of the sample have been studied. Average diameter of nanorods is found approximately 50 nm and length around 250–350 nm.

Keywords:

• humidity sensor
• pellets
• annealing
• resistance

The authors are highly grateful to Vice‐Chancellor Prof. R. P. Singh and Head, Department of Physics, Prof. G. P. Gupta for constant encouragement and support.