Light-assisted room temperature ammonia gas sensor based on porphyrin-coated V2O5 nanosheets

This study explores the gas-sensing capabilities of light-activated porphyrin-coated V2O5 nanosheets for ammonia detection. The nanosheets were synthesized via a hydrothermal method, heat treatment, and solution dispersion. They were then coated with thin layers of Zn-porphyrin and Cu-porphyrin derivatives. The gas-sensing performance of the porphyrin/V2O5 sensor was evaluated under dark and visible light conditions. The combination of materials significantly improves the sensor's performance compared to pure V2O5 nanosheets sensor. The study also investigated selectivity, temporal stability, and proposed a mechanism for ammonia detection based on the interaction between photo-excited charge carriers and adsorbed gas molecules. With such performance, compact size, cost-effectiveness, and low energy consumption, this sensor holds substantial promise for monitoring freshness and spoilage along food supply chains.