Optical gas sensing by micro-photoluminescence on multiple and single ZnO nanowires

Abstract

ZnO nanowires with average diameters of 50–200 nm were grown by chemical vapor deposition. Their gas sensing properties were analyzed by micro-photoluminescence spectroscopy allowing for optical readout. The influence of atmosphere on the emission intensity was investigated for ZnO nanowires with different metal cover layers and after plasma pre-treatment. Investigations of single ZnO nanowires showed an improved sensitivity towards . Photoresponse of a single ZnO nanowire (inset) to ambient.