Low-Temperature and High-Performance Acetone Sensor Based on ZIF-67 Derived Co3O4 Modified by Functionalized Graphene

Abstract

The increasing demand for gas sensors with rapid response, high selectivity, and pronounced sensitivity to trace levels of acetone is evident in both industrial processes and the clinical diagnosis of diabetes. In this study, FGO/Co₃O₄ sensors were synthesized using graphene chemically functionalized with hydroquinone molecules (FGO) and complexed with ZIF-67 derived Co₃O₄. The resultant sensors were evaluated for sensing capabilities, which revealed that the optimally formulated 1%FGO/Co₃O₄ sensor exhibited several advantageous traits when detecting acetone, including low operational temperature, elevated response value, and exceptionally low detection limit. Specifically, the 1%FGO/Co₃O₄ sensor achieved a response value of 180 to 100 ppm acetone at 100 °C and reached a detection limit of 100 ppb. The improved gas-sensitive performances are primarily contributed to the surface defects on composites, the distinctive three-dimensional structure of Co₃O₄, and the synergistic effect between FGO/Co₃O₄ after the formation of heterojunction. With excellent gas sensing properties and low power consumption levels, the FGO/Co₃O₄ sensor has significant potential for real-time monitoring of acetone in industrial environments and medical diagnostics.