High performance UV sensor based on individual ZnO nanowire and photoelectric properties of individual ZnO nanowire surface in different atmospheres

The fabrication and performance of an ultraviolet (UV) sensor based on individual ZnO nanowire is presented in this research. ZnO nanowires were synthesized by a CVD procedure and have been investigated by TEM, SEM and PL spectroscopy. The Schottky barriers between ZnO nanowire and Pt electrodes are investigated in air and nitrogen atmosphere, respectively. The photoresponse of the UV sensor are studied using a UV LED with wavelength of 375 nm. The conductance of individual ZnO nanowire is very sensitive to UV light, and the photo response exhibits an excellent sensitivity and reliability, which suggests that the ZnO nanowire is a promising sensing element for UV photodetectors. Moreover, measurements indicate that the adsorption and desorption of oxygen molecules on the surface of the ZnO nanowire can significantly influence its photoelectrical properties.