Synthesis and Sensing Response of Magnesium Antimoniate Oxide (MgSb₂O₆) in the Presence of Propane Atmospheres at Different Operating Voltages

Nanoparticles of MgSb2O6 were synthesized using a microwave-assisted wet chemistry method, followed by calcination at 700 degrees C. Their ability to detect different concentrations of propane gas (C3H8) at various operating voltages was evaluated. The material's crystalline phase was identified using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The morphology was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), finding bar- and polyhedron-type geometries. Through transmission electron microscopy (TEM), we found particle sizes of 8.87-99.85 nm with an average of similar to 27.63 nm. Employing ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, we found a band gap value of similar to 3.86 eV. Thick films made with MgSb2O6 powders were exposed to atmospheres containing 150, 300, 400, and 600 ppm of propane gas for dynamic testing. The time-dependent sensitivities were similar to 61.09, similar to 88.80, similar to 97.65, and similar to 112.81%. In addition, tests were carried out at different operating voltages (5-50 V), finding very short response and recovery times (similar to 57.25 and similar to 18.45 s, respectively) at 50 V. The excellent dynamic response of the MgSb2O6 is attributed mainly to the synthesis method because it was possible to obtain nanometric-sized particles. Our results show that the trirutile-type oxide MgSb2O6 possesses the ability, efficiency, and thermal stability to be applied as a gas sensor for propane.