Characterization and ozone-induced coloration of ZnxNi1 − xO thin films prepared by sol–gel method

Abstract

ZnxNi1−xO thin films were prepared by sol–gel spin coating method onto glass substrates in combination with annealing process. Effect of zinc content on the structural, optical and ozone-induced coloration properties of as-prepared films was investigated by X-ray diffraction, field emission-scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscopy and UV–VIS spectrophotometer, respectively. X-ray diffraction results reveal that the structures of all films are still cubic NiO structure. Average grain size of ZnxNi1−xO film increases with increasing annealing temperature and its crystallization is strongly affected by Zn content. Coloration of the films was obtained after UV/ozone exposure due to a presence of ozone-induced hydroxyl groups. Significant enhancement of coloration efficiency of the films is achieved as content of Zn increases.