Polyaniline-multiwalled carbon nanotube (PANI-MWCNT): Room temperature resistive carbon monoxide (CO) sensor

Owing to the high toxicity of CO, the design of highly CO sensitive material is very necessary for sensor technologists. Here, we have demonstrated the synthesis, characterization and CO sensing properties of Polyaniline (PANI) coated multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT). PANI-MWCNT is synthesized via an in-situ chemical oxidative polymerization process. The optical property of as prepared PANI coated MWCNT and PANI-MWCNT were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Simultaneously, the morphological characteristics of the material were studied by Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). The sensors were fabricated via spin coating the PANI-MWCNT film on the patterned interdigited electrode (IDE). Carbon monoxide (CO) gas sensing properties of PANI coated MWCNT were studied and its kinetic analyses were performed. The result showed good response and repeatability towards CO at room temperature. The results suggest a potential application of PANI coated MWCNT in gas sensors for CO detection.