Size and shape of supported zirconia nanoparticles determined by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

F. Yubero, C. Mansilla, F.J. Ferrer, J.P. Holgado, A.R. González-Elipe
Journal of Applied Physics, 101 (2007) 124910 (1-6)
doi: 10.1063/1.2749482

The initial stages of growth of zirconia nanoparticlesdeposited on $Si O_{2}$ , $Y_{2} O_{3}$ , and $Ce O_{2}$ substrates have been studied by the x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy peak shape analysis. $Zr O_{2}$ was deposited by plasma decomposition of a volatile $Zr {(OtBu)}_{4}$ precursor. The electronic interactions at each particular interface formed have been followed by means of the modified Auger parameter of the deposited Zr cations. They were quantified by means of Wagner plots and the chemical state vectors of the systems. The observed changes in these local electronic probes as the amount of deposit was increased have been correlated to the particular $Zr O_{2}$ nanostructures identified on each substrate considered. A Volmer-Weber (islands) growth mechanism has been found for all the substrates considered. Moreover, clear indications have been found of a columnar growth for the case of $Zr O_{2}$ deposited on $Si O_{2}$

Etiquetado en:2007 A.R. González-Elipe C. Mansilla Francisco Yubero Journal of Applied Physics