Ti K-edge X-ray Absorption Spectra of Spray Pyrolysis Synthesized TiO_(2-x) and TiO_(2-x) N_x Thin Films

摘要

Oxygen deficient TiO_2 and N-TiO_2 anatase thin films were synthesized by employing a two step process. First TiO_2 and N-TiO_2 films were synthesized by using a cost effective spray pyrolysis method. Subsequently, these films were reduced under H_2 to create oxygen vacancies. Formation of oxygen vacancies was confirmed by using synchrotron source X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS). Effect of oxygen vacancies on electronic and structural properties were deduced from the near edge and extended region analysis of the X-ray absorption spectra. It is inferred that reduction time plays a crucial role in creating oxygen vacancies and number of oxygen vacancies increases with increase in reduction time. Substrate effect was delineated by using Si and FTO (Fluorine doped tin oxide coated glass) as substrates for film deposition.