Effect of PVP on gas‐sensing properties of ZnO micro/nanostructure materials in SDS‐PVP composite

Abstract ZnO is often used as gas sensor. In order to increase the sensitivity of the sensors, many methods are used to change the gas‐sensing properties. In this paper, ZnO was synthesized by hydrothermal method using Zn (NO ₃ ) ₂ as a zinc source. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS) and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) were added into the system to control microstructure and surface morphology of ZnO nanoparticles. The SDS was kept constant, and the PVP was changed. The morphology and composite were investigated by field emission scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The chemical valence of the elements was determined by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The sensing properties were investigated at different PVP components. It is found that ZnO has a red zinc structure. When the m _SDS :m _{PVP =} 1:1, the sensing sensitivity is best. The mechanism of equivalent matching structure optimization performance is proposed.