Continuous Microreactor‐Based Synthesis of SnO2 Nanoparticles for Sensor Applications

Abstract

Tin oxide nanoparticles are well-established materials with a wide range of applications, including optoelectronic devices and solid-state gas sensors. Conventional synthesis methods of these systems are often based on batch processes. In this study, we compare batch and continuous synthesis methods for tin dioxide nanoparticles using precipitation and sol-gel processes. For the continuous processes we applied the so called microjet reactor method. The nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, elemental analysis and XRD and exhibited particle sizes of 1.7– 3.0 nm and crystallite sizes of 1.7–2.3 nm, consisting of tetragonal (P42/mnm) and orthorhombic (Pbcn) phases. We have evaluated different post-synthesis purification methods to remove impurities such as chlorides and carbon-hydrogen species. Each purification method exhibited unique advantages and side effects, providing insight into selecting the most appropriate method for specific applications. We also demonstrated the potential of these SnO2 nanoparticles as ethanol gas sensing materials and compared their performance with a commercial sensor.