Sensitive, selective and rapid ammonia-sensing by gold nanoparticle-sensitized V2O5/CuWO4 heterojunctions for exhaled breath analysis

Abstract Marigold flower-like V2O5/CuWO4 heterojunctions were synthesized and its volatile organic compound (VOC)-sensing properties were tested and significantly enhanced after sensitizing by Au nanoparticles. Detailed characterizations were carried out by SEM, XRD and XPS to determine the morphology, crystal structure, elemental and chemical composition of the sensing materials, respectively. The fabricated gold-sensitized sensor was found to be rapidly responsive (a few seconds), highly sensitive to ammonia with good selectivity as compared to various types of VOCs. The limit of detection and linear range of sensor at 150°C were 212 ppb and 5-158 ppm, respectively, which is suitable for detection of exhaled breath ammonia of patients at their last stage of chronic kidney disease. Furthermore, it was found to be of high intra-day repeatability, which is properly explained by discussing the mechanism of NH3 sensing. Very long-term stability of the sensor was investigated over 56 days, once a week.