MOF-derived metal oxide (Cu, Ni, Zn) gas sensors with excellent selectivity towards H2S, CO and H2 gases

Abstract

Metal-organic framework (MOF)-derived metal oxides blend the sensing properties of metal oxides with MOF porosity, enhancing gas sensing capabilities. In this study, M-MOFs (M = Cu, Ni and Zn) were synthesized and then calcined at different temperatures to obtain their corresponding metal oxides (CuO, NiO and ZnO). The synthesis method incorporated novel approaches to enhance sensor performance, such as optimizing calcination temperatures for improved selectivity. Structural and morphological analyses confirmed the high surface area and porosity of the metal oxide materials, facilitating efficient gas adsorption and promoting enhanced sensor response. Gas sensing studies revealed significantly enhanced performance of MOF-derived metal oxides over M-MOFs, strongly influenced by calcination temperature. Moreover, CuO, NiO and ZnO MOF-derived metal oxides showed improved selectivity towards H2S, CO and H2 gases, respectively. This study demonstrates that tuning MOF and calcination parameters can tailor sensor selectivity effectively.