Characteristics of sol-gel SnO2 films treated by ammonia

Tin dioxide thin films prepared by sol-gel dip-coating method with ammonia treatment have been studied. By using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning ele ctron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, detailed investigation on the structure and morphology of the films has sho wn the condensation of Sn-OH and the strengthening of gel network net throu gh ammonia treatment, which leads to the improvement of the adhesion of the films. From the spectral transmission, angular distribution of reflectance and absorption spectrum, the optical properties of the ammonia treated fil ms indicate that the ammonia treated films have a favorable optical perform ance, and the films are more suitable for acting as antireflective films th an the heat-treated films. The ammonia treated films also exhibit higher co nductivity compared with the non-treated films.