| Abstract Scope |
This study examines ZnO nanocomposites with 2D MXenes at varying weight percentages for room-temperature NO₂ gas sensing. MXene@ZnO composite nanostructures were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, with specific weight ratios (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) tested for NO₂ gas-sensing. These sensors were fabricated on both silicon and flexible PET substrates,and gas-sensing characteristics, including response and selectivity, were analyzed across NO₂ concentrations ranging from 5 to 25 ppm. Sensors with 10 wt.% MXene content demonstrated the highest responsiveness, excellent repeatability, and superior selectivity, establishing this ratio as optimal for enhanced NO₂ detection. SEM analysis confirmed a uniform distribution of ZnO particles on the MXene surface, particularly at higher weight percentages. This distribution was associated with an increase in chemisorbed oxygen levels, contributing to improved gas-sensing performance. ZnO/MXene composite-based sensors exhibited good sensitivity and reversibility, with stable performance even after 100 and 1000 bending cycles, affirming their suitability for flexible electronic applications. |