Multi-strategy coordination enables WSe₂ to achieve high-performance real-world detection of NO₂

In recent years, WSe₂ has become an ideal material for room-temperature NO₂ gas sensing, but its low response and long response time limit its application. In this study, we combined multiple strategies of constructing a three-dimensional structure, introducing Se vacancies, Au nanoparticle sensitization, and 1 T/2 H-phase modulation. The synergistic effect was utilized to effectively enhance the gas adsorption, charge transfer degree, and carrier transport capacity of WSe₂ and achieve high-performance NO₂ detection. The prepared V-WAAP achieved high response (78.32%) with a short response time (33 s), and outstanding stability and selectivity for low concentration (1 ppm) NO₂. The intrinsic factors of sensing performance improvement were comprehensively analyzed by combining the results of compositional and structural characterization. In addition, we verified its potential for practical applications by assembling a V-WAAP-based NO₂ gas sensing equipment.