Does aging increase the particle size of the precursor, and by what mechanism?
Does the increase in grain size of the precursor eliminate pinholes during film formation, and if so, why?
Dear friend Hyowon Jang
Aging can indeed lead to an increase in particle size of a precursor material, and this can occur through various mechanisms depending on the specific system and conditions involved. One common mechanism is known as Ostwald ripening, which occurs when smaller particles dissolve and their material re-deposits onto larger particles, resulting in the growth of larger particles over time.
During aging, the precursor particles may undergo thermodynamic and kinetic changes. The smaller particles, being thermodynamically less stable due to higher surface energy, tend to dissolve and migrate towards the larger particles that are more energetically favorable. This redistribution of material leads to an overall increase in the size of the larger particles.
Regarding the impact of increased grain size on the elimination of pinholes during film formation, it is important to note that grain size and pinhole formation are influenced by multiple factors and can depend on the specific film deposition process.
In some cases, an increase in grain size can help reduce or eliminate pinholes during film formation. Larger grains provide a more continuous and compact film structure, minimizing the presence of voids or gaps where pinholes could form. Additionally, larger grains can enhance the packing density of particles, reducing the chances of pinhole formation due to improved particle arrangement.
However, it is essential to consider other factors as well, such as the film thickness, precursor properties, and deposition conditions. It is possible that an excessively large grain size could introduce other issues, such as cracking or poor adhesion, which may negatively affect the film quality and increase the likelihood of pinhole formation.
In summary, while an increase in grain size of the precursor material can contribute to the elimination of pinholes during film formation in some cases, it is not the sole determining factor. Multiple factors, including grain size, film thickness, precursor properties, and deposition conditions, collectively influence the final film quality and the occurrence of pinholes.
Let us keep discussing this interesting topic and exploring at your convenience.
Hyowon Jang
Kaushik Shandilya
A precursor is a substance from which nanoparticles are synthesized. Precursors in the process of synthesis undergo transformations that do not depend on the particle size of the precursor powder. All reagents age and may change their composition. For this, chemists purify them by recrystallization or buy a new reagent. I hope you add nanoparticles of the obtained substance to the film, and not the precursor.
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