High-performance triethylamine gas sensors based on SnO2–Au nanotubes fabricated via an electrospinning method

Abstract

Triethylamine (TEA), as an important chemical raw material, is widely used in pharmaceuticals, dyes, rubber, and other industries. However, its high volatility, strong irritancy, and flammable/explosive properties pose serious threats to production safety and human health. Therefore, the development of highly sensitive and stable TEA gas sensors holds significant practical importance. In this study, Au-doped tin dioxide (SnO₂) nanotube materials with varying doping concentrations were successfully prepared via a one-step electrospinning method combined with a calcination process. Gas-sensing performance tests demonstrated that the Au-composited SnO₂ nanotube sensor exhibited excellent response characteristics to 50 ppm TEA at a relatively low operating temperature (144 °C), achieving a high response value (R_a/R_g) of 215.74. The incorporation of Au enabled the material to attain a narrower band gap (E_g) compared with pure SnO₂, thereby enhancing electron transfer capability. Moreover, the sensor displayed rapid response/recovery times (6 s/91 s), as well as good reproducibility and long-term stability. This facile preparation method and outstanding sensing performance suggest that Au–SnO₂ nanotube composites hold promising potential for practical TEA detection applications.