The Preparation And Characterization Of Colored Iron Oxide Glass Thin Films Using Sol-Gel Technique

In this paper, TEOS, H2O, and EtOH are taken as the main materials to make colored iron oxide glass thin films by sol-gel technique. The optimum process method and process parameters are confirmed. Smooth, uniform, transparent and reddish iron oxide glass thin films with superior integrated performance are prepared. The effect of adding PDMS as the surfactant on thin films is discussed and the optimum technique is determined with PDMS.Iron oxide is a significant class of inorganic material that has unique properties and applications. It has wide and potential applications in the areas of optics, electrics, thermology, acoustics and others. These unique properties of iron oxide have a close relationship with the particle size and morphology.The effect of EtOH, Fe(NO3)3·9H2O and de-ionized water on the sol system is analyzed. The gel time, conductivity and the viscosity of the sol are studied. The optical absorption performance, surface morphology and corrosion resistance of thin films are analyzed. The spectra and phase analysis of thin are studied.It is found that the best volume ratio of each component for the sol is confirmed, which is Vol:TEOS/EtOH/H2O=30:25:2. When the volume of TEOS is15ml, the quality of Fe(NO3)3·9H2O is6g, and pH=3. The gel time is influenced by the following factors, such as the H2O content, water bath at high temperature, adding PDMS or not, and so forth. The conductivity of the sol in the dissolution process of Fe(NO3)3·9H2O increases gradually. The viscosity of the sol is affected by the added H2O content, adding PDMS or not and other factors. The range of the suitable viscosity of the sol for dipping is2-5cp. Thin films possess anti-acid corrosion. During the EDS analysis, it is found that thin films contain Fe, O and Si elements. After phase analysis, it is determined that iron oxide thin films are obtained.When PDMS is added, the optimum volume ratio of each component of the sol is determined, which is Vol:TEOS/EtOH/PDMS/H2O=30:30:3:2. When the volume of TEOS is15ml, the quality of Fe(NO3)3·9H2O is6g, and pH=3. Compared to thin films without adding PDMS, thin films with PDMS do not drop easily. Moreover, thin films with higher density are obtained. The surface possesses hydrophobicity with the contact angle of about100°. However, the gel time is greatly shortened.