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 electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, detailed investigation on the structure and morphology of the films has shown the condensation of Sn-OH and the strengthening of gel network net through 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 films indicate that the ammonia treated films have a favorable optical performance, and the films are more suitable for acting as antireflective films than the heat-treated films. The ammonia treated films also exhibit higher conductivity compared with the non-treated films.