Tetrakis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate) Cerium for the Deposition of Hydrophobic Coatings
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide Cerium oxide thin films represent an important approach to hydrophobic, self-cleaning solar modules, offering significant potential for photovoltaic applications. These coatings provide a durable, long-lasting alternative to conventional self-cleaning surface technologies, which often rely on polymer-based films prone to degradation over time. Here, we present the synthesis of tetrakis(2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedionate) cerium ([Ce(thd) 4 ]) for the deposition of hydrophobic cerium oxide thin films by aerosol-assisted chemical vapor deposition (AACVD). The use of [Ce(thd) 4 ] as a precursor led to the deposition of cerium oxide coatings onto fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO)-coated glass substrates. Water contact angles (WCA’s) of 91–101.1° were observed for films deposited at temperatures of 400–500 °C. Investigation into the influence of the substrate on the hydrophobicity of cerium oxide films demonstrated that FTO-coated glass offers a more favorable surface morphology compared to that of barrier glass. The deposited cerium oxide thin films were characterized by surface analysis techniques for the different deposition temperatures. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of the adhered thin films revealed a transition from a mixed-phase system of Ce 3+ and Ce 4+ to a composition dominated exclusively by Ce 4+ .
Source: Langmuir
Authors: Jayna K. Patel, Iqra Ramzan, Cesar III De Leon Reyes, Ivan P. Parkin, Claire J. Carmalt
Institution: University College London
Language: English
Subfield: Surfaces, Coatings and Films
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,500
OpenAlex ID: W4411201034