Optimized ZnSn(OH)6 porous hollow microspheres via doping Ag for detecting formaldehyde

Pure and 4 wt% Ag-doped ZnSn(OH)6 were fabricated via one-step hydrothermal treatment, respectively, and the two samples were characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM and TEM technologies. Test results reveal that the Ag-doped ZnSn(OH)6 is a hollow microspheres with porous structure. What’s more, the Ag-doped ZnSn(OH)6 based on sensor exhibited a relatively high sensing response (49.12) and fast response/recovery capability (16/10 s) to 100 ppm formaldehyde than those to pure ZnSn(OH)6 (24.78) at 200 °C. The reason for enhancement was contributed to hollow spherical structure, which provided higher specific surface area, more active sites. In addition, the Ag doping was conducive to gas molecules dissociation, which stimulated the reactions happening between the sensing material and gas molecules. Thus, the Ag-doped ZnSn(OH)6 is more suitable and promising candidate material to prepare gas sensor for detecting formaldehyde.