Nb-doped TiO2 thin films deposited by spray pyrolysis method

Abstract

Undoped TiO2 and Nb-doped TiO2 thin films have been deposited by spray pyrolysis method on ITO/glass substrates. All the as-deposited films are amorphous, as shown by X-Ray Diffraction. Under certain conditions of heat-treatment in air, the films deposited by pyrolysis became pure anatase. The hydrophilic properties of all the films were investigated, and a comparison was made as a function of the heat treatment, and as a function of Nb doping. Contact angles lower then 3 deg. have been obtained, after irradiation times specific for each film