Electrochemical detection of ammonia solution using tin oxide nanoparticles synthesized via sol-gel route

摘要

In this work, electrochemical detection of ammonia solution (NH4OH) using sol-gel-synthesized tin oxide (SnO2) nanoparticles is investigated. Structural characteristics were studied using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy that confirmed the formation of tin oxide nanoparticles. Optical characterizations were also studied via UV-Vis-IR spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. After successful confirmation of sol-gel synthesis, these tin oxide nanoparticles were deposited on patterned copper substrate via thermal evaporator. Analysis for sensing ammonia solution was carried out using a three electrode system via electrochemical workstation. Electrochemical technique incorporates the results of cyclic voltammetry. The results confirmed that the SnO2-deposited copper (Cu) platform successfully detect the presence of ammonia solution in double-distilled water. These results were further analyzed and compared with each indium tin oxide (ITO)-coated glass and pure copper substrate. Moreover, the tin oxide-deposited copper platform showed better performance than ITO substrate.