Gyroid-structured 3D ZnO networks made by atomic layer deposition
Research output: Contribution to journal › Research article › Contributed › peer-review
Contributors
Abstract
3D continuous ZnO morphologies with characteristic feature sizes on the 10 nm length scale are attractive for electronic device manufacture. However, their synthesis remains a challenge because of the low crystallization temperature of ZnO. Here, we report a method for the robust and reliable synthesis of fully crystalline 3D mesoporous ZnO networks by means of atomic layer deposition (ALD) of ZnO into a self-assembled block copolymer template. By carefully optimizing the processing conditions we are able to synthesize several-micrometer-thick layers of mesoporous ZnO networks with a strut width of 30 nm. Two 3D mesoporous morphologies are manufactured: a periodic gyroid structure and a random worm-like morphology. Exploiting the ALD property to conformally coat complex surfaces of high aspect ratio, the channel network of a 3D continuous channel network of a self-assembled block copolymer is replicated into ZnO. X-ray photoemission spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction measurements reveal that the chemical composition of the mesoporous structures is uniform and consists of wurtzite-ZnO throughout the film. Scanning electron microscopy reveals an average pore dimension of 30 nm. The potential of this material for a hybrid photovoltaic application is demonstrated by the manufacture of a poly(3-hexylthiophene)/ZnO solar cell. 3D continuous ZnO morphologies with characteristic feature sizes on the 10 nm length scale are replicated into crystalline ZnO by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Gyroid-structured and random worm-like polymer morphologies are voided and filled by ALD to generate continuous networks of polycrystalline ZnO. A photovoltaic device based on this material shows promising performance.
Details
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 863-872 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Advanced functional materials |
Volume | 24 |
Issue number | 6 |
Publication status | Published - 12 Feb 2014 |
Peer-reviewed | Yes |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
Sustainable Development Goals
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Keywords
- atomic layer deposition, nanostructures, polymer self assembly, ZnO