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Densification of Oxide Nanoparticle Thin Films by Irradiation with Visible Light
Author(s) -
Bertino Massimo F.,
Smarsly Bernd,
Stocco Antonio,
Stark Arne
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
advanced functional materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.069
H-Index - 322
eISSN - 1616-3028
pISSN - 1616-301X
DOI - 10.1002/adfm.200800826
Subject(s) - irradiation , nanoparticle , materials science , visible spectrum , substrate (aquarium) , photodissociation , thin film , oxide , coating , porosity , chemical engineering , photochemistry , optoelectronics , nanotechnology , chemistry , composite material , oceanography , physics , geology , nuclear physics , engineering , metallurgy
A technique is presented that allows for altering of the physical characteristics of films of TiO 2 nanoparticles by exposure to visible light. In this technique, dye‐sensitized oxide nanoparticles are deposited on a substrate by dip‐coating. Photodissociation of the organic ligand layer leads to cross‐linking of the nanoparticles. Consequently, irradiated films have a decreased porosity, an increased index of refraction and an increased hydrophobicity. Films irradiated with green light are compared to films irradiated with UV light. Within experimental error, visible‐ and UV‐illumination induces the same changes in the films. The mechanism of surfactant elimination in dye‐sensitized oxide particles is discussed, patterning is demonstrated, and prospective applications of the technique are considered.