Graphene Oxide (GO) Nanocomposite Based Room Temperature Gas Sensor

A quest for the room temperature operated gas sensing lead to development of graphene oxide-based nanocomposite as the potential sensor materials. Room temperature operation is one of the major challenges which is being addressed over the years as it allows less power consumption as well as simplifies device configuration. Trivial chemical synthesis route and mass production are the key features that make GO an ideal sensing material. The presence of oxygen functional group and surface defects on GO act as receptor functions for adsorption and chemical reaction of target gas sensing molecules. The present chapter comprises the various GO nanocomposites materials developed for room temperature gas sensor application. The structural, chemical, and electrical properties of GO are also discussed. Various synthesis routes for GO have been summarized starting with the advantages of GO nanocomposites materials and the principle of operation for gas sensing. The synergetic effect due to the addition of multi-sensing element plays a vital role in enhancing sensing performance. Incorporation of noble metal nanoparticles to GO has a significant effect on gas response enhancement. Finally, the challenges and probable development of GO-based nanocomposites are described.