The sol-gel transformation of TIPT coatings: a FTIR study

The sol-gel transformation mechanisms of tetraisopropyl orthotitanate (TIPT ) derived coatings were qualitatively studied by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Kinetics studies were carried out in the liquid state for purl and diluted precursor. Xerogel film resulting from a stable isopr opoxide-derived sol with low water content and acidic pH was also studied a s a function of time. The absorption band evolution was followed, from the non-hydrolysed metal isopropoxide until the xerogel thin film formation. Th is evolution was interpreted and discussed in terms of TiO2 sol-gel reactio ns (hydrolysis, reesterification or transesterification, condensation). (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.