Reflectometric measurement of n- hexane adsorption on ZnO 2 nanohybrid film modified by hydrophobic gold nanoparticles

•Zinc peroxide/poly(styrenesulfonate) films were prepared using layer by layer method.•The surface was functionalized by gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) coated by octanethiol.•Selectivity and hydrophobicity was enhanced due to the surface modification.•Reflectometric interference spectroscopy was used to measure hexane vapour adsorption.•The thin film is suitable for sensorial application (for VOCs).