α-Fe2O3 nanorods: Low temperature synthesis, characterization and humidity response properties

α-Fe2O3 nanorods have been prepared at low temperature by a facile surfactant free chemical route. The advantage of this method is good composition control and homogeneity. The products were characterized using various physicochemical characterization techniques such as X-ray Diffractometry, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectroscopy and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy. These powders were further studied for their humidity sensing performance. The sensors exhibited quick responses for change in the humidity. The resistance systematically varies by four orders of magnitude on exposure to humidity from 20 to 90 % RH.