This work studied the possibility of using a sensor based on plasma-sprayed zinc oxide (ZnO) sensitive layer for NO2 detection. The atmospheric plasma spray process was employed to deposit ZnO gas sensing layer and the obtained coating structure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The influences of gas concentration, working temperature, water vapor in testing air on NO2 sensing performance of the ZnO sensors were studied. ZnO sensors showed a good sensor response and selectivity to NO2 at an optimal working temperature. (C) 2010 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.