Exploring MOF-Derived\nCuO/rGO Heterostructures for\nHighly Efficient Room Temperature CO<sub>2</sub> Sensors

In response to the urgent need for advanced climate change\nmitigation\ntools, this study introduces an innovative CO<sub>2</sub> gas sensor\nbased on p-p-type heterostructures designed for effective operation\nat room temperature. This sensor represents a significant step forward,\nutilizing the synergistic effects of p-p heterojunctions to enhance\nthe effective interfacial area, thereby improving sensitivity. The\nincorporation of CuO nanoparticles and rGO sheets also optimizes gas\ntransport channels, enhancing the sensor’s performance. Our\nCuO/rGO heterostructures, with 5 wt % rGO, have shown a notable maximum\nresponse of 39.6–500 ppm of CO<sub>2</sub> at 25 °C, and\na low detection limit of 2 ppm, indicating their potential as high-performance,\nroom-temperature CO<sub>2</sub> sensors. The prepared sensor demonstrates\nlong-term stability, maintaining 98% of its initial performance over\na 30-day period when tested at 1-day intervals. Additionally, the\nsensor remains stable under conditions of over 40% relative humidity.\nFurthermore, a first-principles study provides insights into the interaction\nmechanisms with CO<sub>2</sub> molecules, enhancing our understanding\nof the sensor’s operation. This research contributes to the\ndevelopment of CO<sub>2</sub> monitoring solutions, offering a practical\nand cost-effective approach to environmental monitoring in the context\nof global climate change efforts.