CERAMIC THIN-FILM FORMATION ON FUNCTIONALIZED INTERFACES THROUGH BIOMIMETIC PROCESSING

Processing routes have been developed for the production of thin ceram ic films through precipitation from aqueous solutions. The techniques are based on crystal nucleation and growth onto functionalized interfa ces. Surface functionalization routes have been developed by the mimic king of schemes used by organisms to produce complex ceramic composite s such as teeth, bones, and shells. High-quality, dense polycrystallin e films of oxides, hydroxides, and sulfides have now been prepared fro m ''biomimetic'' synthesis techniques. Ceramic films can be synthesize d on plastics and other materials at temperatures below 100-degrees-C. As a low-temperature process in which water rather than organic solve nts is used, this synthesis is environmentally benign. Nanocrystalline ceramics can be produced, sometimes with preferred crystallite orient ation. The direct deposition of high-resolution patterned films has al so been demonstrated. The process is well suited to the production of organic-inorganic composites.