A generic approach for controlled synthesis of In₂O₃ nanostructures for gas sensing applications

Large-scale synthesis of In₂O₃ nanoparticles, nanowires and nanorods were realized by improved chemical vapor deposition method on Au-coated silicon substrate. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed that the flow of carrier argon gas has profound effect on the shape and morphology of In₂O₃ nanostructures. Detailed structural analysis showed that the In₂O₃ nanostructures are single crystalline with a cubic crystal structure. Room temperature PL spectrum showed broad and intense blue emission at 375 nm. The In₂O₃ nanowires sensor can successfully detect hydrogen gas with response time as low as 50 s at 250 °C.