Synthesis and characterization of ZnO semiconducting films on glass substrate by sol-gel technique for gas sensors in aerospace applications

In aviation and space applications, sensors have a significant effect in determining the effect of toxic gases at human contact points. Therefore, in this study, gas sensor applications of ZnO films are suggested in order to understand the effects of many different gases in the field of aviation and space without harming humans. This study systematically describes the synthesis and characterization of ZnO semiconductor films on glass substrate for gas sensors to be used in aerospace applications. These coatings were successfully synthesized on glass substrates using the sol-gel technique. In this process, transparent solutions were prepared using different concentrations of Zn acetate, methanol and glacial acetic acid. In addition to the thermal and structural properties, it was found that the film prepared from the solution containing low concentration Zn with 12g methanol had a crack-free, pinhole-free and continuous surface, and the surface roughness and cracks in the films increased with increasing number of layers. It is recommended to use ZnO-based gas sensors at room temperature inside the aircraft where exposure to toxic gases may occur, and at elevated temperatures close to the engine area, which may be important for thermal management and accident prevention. As a remarkable result of these studies, systematic correlations were established between solution conditions and film quality as innovative studies and it was determined that high quality ZnO film was produced by sol-gel method and contributed to its use in gas sensors in aviation applications.