Growth mechanism of two-component titania/vanadium oxide thin films from aqueous solutions

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Joachim Bill
• Subject Area: Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials ; Mechanical Properties of Metallic Materials and their Microstructural Origins
• Term: from 2006 to 2011
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 28197821

The synthesis and characterization of two-component titania/vanadium oxide films and powders with respect to their potential application in electrochromic devices (¿Smart Window¿) and antimicrobial coatings is proposed. For the fabrication of the films thermohydrolytic reactions in aqueous solutions at temperatures below 100°C will be used (Chemical Bath Deposition). In general this procedure allows the coating of complex shaped surfaces and provides a simple route for patterned coatings as well as an economical alternative to conventional deposition from the gas phase. The films will be tested for photocatalytic activity by measuring the photodegredation of organic compounds. Investigations on morphology, microstructure and chemical composition of the films will be combined with studies on the formation mechanism by UV/VIS spectroscopy and dynamic light scattering experiments. Further studies will include advanced atomic force microscopy in fluid cells to obtain force-distance curve measurements of model systems related to the film formation and the assessment of these results.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: USA
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Mark R. de Guire