Project R-4207

Low temperature chemical solution synthesis of metal oxides (Research)

Wet chemical syntheses typically yield (complex) oxides at temperatures well below those required in solid state syntheses. This has led to a widespread "low temperature" status, even though temperatures > 400°C remained usual. In contrast, most recently stringent temperature budgets (< 200°C) are introduced, stemming from new application fields. In 2011 an important breakthrough in low temperature oxide deposition was reported1. This new route is based on autocombustion precursors and holds potential for general applicability2. Evaluating whether the autocombustion principle can be extended to other precursors and other crystalline oxides, eventually assisted by irradiation (UV or microwave), is a first goal in the current project. Most importantly, the project aims to contribute to the development of a detailed physicochemical understanding of the processes occurring, including reaction mechanisms, thermodynamics and kinetics. This insight finally should allow to formulate "design rules" for low temperature precursors in the solution deposition of oxides. In order to achieve the goals, the project will : - encompass a careful selection of oxide materials, with varying demands and properties, - compare hydrolytic and non-hydrolytic precursors with and without autocombustion capability, - study decomposition reactions and crystallization leading to the transformation of the precursor to the oxide - assess the necessity and effects of assistance from UV or microwave irradiation

01 January 2013 - 31 December 2016