Hydrothermal Synthesis and Ammonia Sensing Properties of WO3/Fe2O3 Nanorod Composites

WO3 nanorods (NRs) and α-Fe2O3 NRs were fabricated by hydrothermal treatment. Composites of these materials were created by mixing with ratios of 1:2, 1:1 and 2:1 in weight. Morphology, structure and composition characteristics of the WO3/Fe2O3 NRs composites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy analyses. The results of sensing measurements indicated that the sensor based on WO3:Fe2O3 with the ratio of 2:1 exhibited fairly good sensitivity toward NH3 at 300°C and the sensor based on WO3:Fe2O3 with the ratio of 1:1 can be used as a NH3 sensor with an operating temperature of 350°C. Selectivity and response–recovery times are suitable for practical applications. Finally, the mechanism for the improvement in the gas-sensing property was discussed.