Preparation and characterization of hybrid nanopowder based on nanosilicon decorated with carbon nanostructures

Hybrid nanopowder based on silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) decorated with carbon NPs was prepared by high-temperature treatment of the oxidized surface of porous Si NPs impregnated with a carbonaceous precursor. The Si NPs decorated by carbon NPs and carbon nanostructures (CNs) were studied with TEM. The surface chemistry for hybrid NPs was characterized by the TPD MS method, and carboxyl, lactone, and phenol groups were found. The CNs and carbon NPs influence the electric response of a sandwich structure that was prepared using the hybrid NPs modified with palladium NPs and then was tested to measure the concentration of hydrogen in nitrogen-hydrogen gas mixtures. The sandwich structure showed reasonable stability of the electrical response, presumably due to the formation of a specific sensitive layer.