Thin Films

Thin film technology is ubiquitous across materials science for applications such as semiconductors, electronics, memory devices, energy storage, photovoltaics, chemical sensors, and many more. Furthermore, there are sufficient fabrication techniques that virtually any type of material can be prepared as a thin film.
This collection of article digest and abstracts highlights recent studies on the preparation and application of thin films, as well as their characterization through confocal laser scanning microscopy and other techniques.

Abstract

Advancing Surface Evaluation: Unveiling Film Texture with Planar Direction Parameters

Here, we explore the comprehensive evaluation of surface texture in films through the utilization of planar direction parameters alongside traditional surface roughness analysis, showcasing how advanced techniques like laser confocal microscopy contribute to precise surface characterization and offer valuable insights for diverse industrial applications.

Abstract

Characterization of Nanometric Thin Films with Far-Field Light

The abstract introduces a contact-less, all-optical method for characterizing nanometric transparent films, demonstrating its precision in measuring refractive index, film homogeneity, and axial fluorophore distances, with applications in nanometrology and biological axial super-resolution imaging.

Abstract

Disulfide-Bridged Dynamic Covalent Triazine Polymer Thin Films by Interface Polymerization: High Refractive Index with Excellent Optical Transparency

The abstract discusses the development of dynamic and covalently cross-linked C3N3S3 polymer thin-films with tunable thickness and optical properties, offering potential applications in materials engineering, nanotechnology, and devices.

Abstract

Surface-Dependent Properties and Tunable Photodetection of CsPbBr3 Microcrystals Grown on Functional Substrates

This abstract describes the fabrication and characterization of CsPbBr3 microcrystals, which exhibit distinct heterogeneity in photoluminescence and conductivity across different facets, and their potential application as high-performance photodetectors with impressive responsivity.

Method

Revolutionizing Image Analysis in Metallography and Materialography with AI-Based Tools

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing image analysis in metallography and materialography, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency. Conventional methods like thresholding fall short in detecting specific structures, but AI-based algorithms utilize deep neural networks to classify image areas independently. By leveraging AI tools, professionals can achieve higher reproducibility, robust analysis, and improved efficiency in their work, opening up new possibilities for advancements in materials science and engineering.

Abstract

Microspectroscopy on Thin Films of Colloidal Mixture Gradients for Data-Driven Optimization of Optical Properties

This article discusses a method to quickly screen optical properties in mixtures of different colloids in order to find materials with tunable optical properties.

Abstract

Ultrathin, Transparent, and High Density Perovskite Scintillator Film for High Resolution X-Ray Microscopic Imaging

The abstract describes the development of Ce³⁺ ion doped CsPbBr₃ nanocrystals with enhanced light yield and stability, which are used to create ultrathin and transparent scintillator films with high density for high-resolution X-ray microscopic imaging. The films achieve a record spatial resolution of 862 nm.

Abstract

Dynamically Tunable Optical Cavities with Embedded Nematic Liquid Crystalline Networks

The abstract describes a novel approach to dynamically control light using a tunable metal-insulator-metal (MIM) Fabry-Pérot (FP) cavity with solid-state temperature-responsive optical coatings based on a monodomain nematic liquid crystalline network. The proposed mechanism offers large, reversible, and highly linear spectral tuning of optical resonances, enabling reversible switching between reflective and absorbing states over the entire visible and near-infrared spectral regions with high modulation efficiency.

Abstract

Influence of Polyfluorinated Side Chains and Soft-Template Method on the Surface Morphologies and Hydrophobic Properties of Electrodeposited Films from Fluorene Bridged Dicarbazole Monomers

The abstract describes a study on the relationship between molecular structure and the morphology of electrodeposited gas bubbles template polymer thin films. Fluorene-bridged dicarbazole derivatives containing polyfluorinated side chains were synthesized and their electrochemical properties were investigated, showing that the nanostructural and morphological properties of the resulting hydrophobic films could be fine-tuned by adjusting electrochemical parameters.

Abstract

Cellulose Nanocrystal Aqueous Colloidal Suspensions: Evidence of Density Inversion at the Isotropic-Liquid Crystal Phase Transition

The abstract reports the coexistence of liquid crystal upper phase and isotropic bottom phase in aqueous suspensions of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) at the isotropic-nematic phase separation. It also explains the presence of air dissolved in the water present within the CNCs as the reason for the existence of an LC low-density phase.

Abstract

MXene-Nanoflakes-Enabled All-Optical Nonlinear Activation Function for On-Chip Photonic Deep Neural Networks

The abstract describes the development of a reconfigurable saturable absorber using MXene thin film and a silicon waveguide for on-chip neural networks. The use of MXene flakes is shown to enhance electromagnetic absorption and achieve near 99% accuracy in a machine-learning application.

Abstract

Metal-Free Perovskite Piezoelectric Nanogenerators for Human–Machine Interfaces and Self-Powered Electrical Stimulation Applications

The abstract reports the observation of intrinsic piezoelectricity in metal-free perovskite films, as well as a cytotoxicity test to evaluate their low-toxic nature. The as-synthesized perovskite is integrated into a piezoelectric nanogenerator that can serve as a self-powered strain sensor for human-machine interface applications or be adopted in in vitro electrical stimulation devices, demonstrating a path of perovskite-based PENG with high performance, low toxicity, and multifunctionality for future advanced wearable sensors and portable therapeutic systems.

Abstract

Highly Flexible Electroluminescent Devices Based on Super Durable AlN-Dispersed Ag Ultrathin Films

This work develops a solution to the stability problems of flexible electrodes based on ultrathin metals, which is a key issue for their practical application in optoelectronic devices. The solution is the preparation of ultrathin and stable doped silver films by introducing a small amount of AlN during the sputtering process, resulting in excellent luminescence performance and mechanical flexibility under operating conditions for flexible ACEL devices.

Abstract

High-Quality Femtosecond Laser Surface Micro/Nano-Structuring Assisted by A Thin Frost Layer

Researchers have found a way to improve the efficiency of femtosecond laser ablation by using a thin frost layer on the target surface, which reduces unwanted effects such as debris redeposition, recast layer formation, and heat-affected zones. This technique allows for the creation of high-quality micro/nanostructures on both plane and curved surfaces, even at high laser fluences.

Article Digest

Channel-Length Independent Electrical Characteristics of Oxide Thin-Film Transistors

The quality and dimensions of the fabricated devices were assessed through an MX61 optical microscope from Olympus.

Abstract

Electric Field Driven Reversible Spinodal Dewetting of Thin Liquid Films on Slippery Surfaces

The article discusses how the stability of thin liquid films on surfaces can be controlled using external stimuli such as electric field, temperature, or light. The study focuses on electric-field-induced reversible dewetting and rewetting of thin liquid films underneath aqueous drops on slippery surfaces, which demonstrated complete reversibility of the process.

Article Digest

Thin Films with Embedded Microspheres for Super-Resolution Microscopy

Microspheres of barium titanate with high refractive index were embedded in thin polydimethylsiloxane films. These films, which adhere to the surface of the nanoplasmonic structures, were used to observe the plasmonic structures providing a tool for high-resolution microscopy.

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eBook 13: Thin Films 3: Spray Coating Experiments - Setups and Methodologies

The eBook comprises papers covering various topics, including the fabrication of multilayer dielectric elastomer actuators in a scalable manner, thick polymer films possessing anti-fog, self-healing, and UV-protection properties, and the enhancement of the properties of electrodeposited copper foils by using composite additives.

News

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Abstract

A Novel Method to Control the Crystallographic-Preferred Orientation of Lead Iodide Toward Highly Efficient and Large-Area Perovskite Solar Cells

Herein, a facile method is provided to produce controllable lead iodide as the raw material for formamidinium-based PSCs.

Abstract

Effect of deposition conditions on physical properties of sputtered silicon oxynitride thin films on float glass

Researchers report on the interrelationship between the conditions of the reactive magnetron deposition process and composition, structure and in turn optical and mechanical properties.

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Deep Learning: Even a Machine Brain Needs Training

In this online seminar you can learn how to train a neuronal network in the Olympus Stream software.

Abstract

Plasma-resistance Evaluation of Yttrium Oxyfluoride Coating Prepared by Aerosol Deposition Method

To suppress particle contamination and process drift, there is a strong demand for plasma-resistant coatings that prevent corrosion of the inner ceramic components in plasma etching equipment.

Abstract

Direct Microtip Focused Electrohydrodynamic Jet Printing of Tailored Microlens Arrays on PDMS Nanofilm-Modified Substrate

Herein, a one-step maskless fabrication method of MLAs on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) nanofilm modified substrate via microtip focused electrohydrodynamic jet (MFEJ) printing is described.

News

Ask the Experts: Digital Image Processing

Want to get a better understanding of digital image processing techniques? Then watch the Ask the Experts webinar rerun on July 29 to learn how point and local operation filters can be used to control sources of error such as noise or low contrast in microscopy images.

Abstract

Programmable Stimulation and Actuation in Flexible and Stretchable Electronics

This review summarizes some of the most important progresses on the stimulating/actuating capabilities (e.g., electrical, thermal, mechanical, optical, and chemical stimulation) of flexible/stretchable electronics.

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Compendium: Manufacturing and Inspection of Advanced Materials

This free eBook covers the evolving fields of additive manufacturing, thin films, electronics, surface roughness, and composites. In more than 20 article digests, you can learn about the recent developments in the manufacturing and inspection of novel materials using confocal laser scanning microscopy together with other analytical techniques.

Article

Flexible Electronics: Recent Developments and Applications

Flexible electronics offer great potential in a multitude of application areas, including human-machine interfaces and wearable electronics. Herein, you can find a selection of recent Open Access review articles that demonstrate the development and utilization of this class of materials.

Abstract

Seeing is Believing: In Situ/Operando Optical Microscopy for Probing Electrochemical Energy Systems

This review discusses a range of in situ/operando techniques based on optical microscopy reported in literatures for studying electrochemical energy systems.

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Video

Webinar: Confocal Technology - What you do not dare to ask

Learn all about confocal technology in this online seminar by Markus Fabich, Olympus.

Article Digest

Native Oxide Barrier Layer for Selective Electroplated Metallization of Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cells

An alternative low-silver approach for low-temperature metallization of SHJ solar cells through selectivity of etchants and plating processes was demonstrated. The NOBLE approach saves processing steps and consumables with encouraging results.

Abstract

A New Frontier of Printed Electronics: Flexible Hybrid Electronics

Here, the fundamental building blocks of an Flexible Hybrid Electronics system, printed sensors and circuits, thinned silicon ICs, printed antennas, printed energy harvesting and storage modules, and printed displays, are discussed

Abstract

Fast and Reproducible Wettability Switching on Functionalized PVDF/PMMA Surface Controlled by External Electric Field

In this paper, the novel material with controllable wettability switching triggered by external electric field is developed.

Abstract

In Situ Integration of SERS Sensors for On‐Chip Catalytic Reactions

Herein, reported is the fabrication of an integrated surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) sensor and graphene‐based catalytic chip by laser scribing of graphene oxide (GO) and Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) composite (AgNPs@GO).

Abstract

Laser‐Induced Graphene Tapes as Origami and Stick‐On Labels for Photothermal Manipulation via Marangoni Effect

In this paper, laser‐induced graphene (LIG) tape is reported as stick‐on photothermal labels for developing light‐driven actuators based on the Marangoni effect.

Abstract

Highly Conductive, Air‐Stable Silver Nanowire@Iongel Composite Films toward Flexible Transparent Electrodes

A new type of flexible transparent electrode is designed, by employing wettability‐induced selective electroless‐welding of silver nanowire (AgNW) networks, together with a thin conductive iongel as the protective layer.

Abstract

Influence of Amorphous, Carbon‐Derived Wrinkled Surface Topologies on the Colonization of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bacteria

Here, it is demonstrated that thermal treatment planar thin films of amorphous graphite‐like carbon (G‐aC) coatings deposited on shape memory polystyrene could be used to prepare substratum surfaces with topologies ranging from smooth undulations to those with rough distortion features.

Abstract

A method of assessing the strength of metal surface using film samples on titanium alloy Ti‐1023

A direct method of assessing the surface tensile strength using film samples with thicknesses of approximately 40 μm is proposed in this paper. The immediate objective of this research is to demonstrate the fundamentals of surface strength testing and prove the feasibility of preparing films by tracking the evolution of the surface integrity.

Abstract

Surface texture and barrier performance of poly(lactic acid)–cellulose nanocrystal extruded‐cast films

In this study, the influence of cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) addition level (0.5–2 wt %) on the surface texture, thickness, and barrier properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) extruded‐cast films was assessed.

Abstract

A Method to Form Smooth Films of Liquid Metal Supported by Elastomeric Substrate

Several methods are proposed to manipulate and pattern liquid metal films into elastic conductors but all lack precise control over the film thickness and roughness, thereby limiting its uniformity, stability, and reproducibility. Here, an approach relying solely on wetting phenomena is proposed to produce smooth film of liquid gallium (Ga) on extended surface areas with controlled thickness and electrical properties.

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ebook

Thin Film Metrology Part 1 & 2

In the two eBooks on Thin Film Metrology, you can find current research articles and comprehensive introductions on the use of laser scanning confocal microscopy in materials science, the fabrication, characterization and applications of thin films, and state-of-the-art methods in the field of flexible electronics.

Article Digest

Flexible Micropillar Electrode Arrays for In Vivo Neural Activity Recordings

Flexible electronics that can form tight interfaces with neural tissues hold great promise for improving the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders and advancing brain/machine interfaces. Here, the facile fabrication of a novel flexible micropillar electrode array (μPEA) is described based on a biotemplate method.

Article Digest

Super-Resolution Microscopy by Movable Thin Films with Embedded Microspheres

Microsphere-assisted imaging has emerged as a simple technique to obtain optical super-resolution. This work addresses the methodology of the resolution measurements and the limited field-of-view provided by each sphere.

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eBook 3: Thin Film Metrology Part 2

Part two of the eBooks on Thin Film Metrology is focused on the manufacturing and characterization of materials for flexible electronics.

Article Digest

Breathable and Flexible Polymer Membranes with Mechanoresponsive Electrical Resistance

Flexible low-resistance membranes that tolerate very high deformability, produce low joule heating, and allow the passage of gases for human comfort are desired for wearable devices. Herein, a network of silver nanowires
(AgNWs) between two highly porous electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) membranes is presented.

Article Digest

Film Adhesion of Flexible Electronics Influenced by Interlayers

Compression-induced delamination is a technique that uses the buckling dimensions to evaluate the interfacial adhesion of materials on flexible substrates quantitatively. This study shows that spontaneous buckles are formed in gold (Au) films, which are deposited without an interlayer. Conversely, external loading is required to delaminate the Au film with the tantalum (Ta) adhesion layer indicating higher adhesion energy.

Article Digest

Flexible Thin-Film Electronics

Fast-forward and electronics are ubiquitous throughout our lives. Most electronic devices are composed of rigid circuit boards containing electronic components (e.g., transistors, resistors, and capacitors), and printed metallic interconnects. Now, flexible electronics are currently being developed for next-generation devices.

Abstract

Flexible electronics based on one‐dimensional and two‐dimensional hybrid nanomaterials

Research on flexible or wearable electronics has been grown remarkably due to the advent of nanomaterials, such as metal nanowires, graphene, or transition metal dichalcogenides.

Abstract

Breaking the Limit of Micro‐Ductility in Oxide Glasses

Oxide glasses are one of the most important engineering and functional material families owing to their unique features, such as tailorable physical properties. However, at the same time intrinsic brittleness has been their main drawback, which severely restricts many applications.

Abstract

Quantum‐Confined‐Superfluidics‐Enabled Moisture Actuation Based on Unilaterally Structured Graphene Oxide Papers

The strong interaction between graphene oxides (GO) and water molecules has trigged enormous research interest in developing GO‐based separation films, sensors, and actuators. However, sophisticated control over the ultrafast water transmission among the GO sheets and the consequent deformation of the entire GO film is still challenging.

Abstract

Effect of Volume Fraction of Gradient Nanograined Layer on Low‐Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Cu

Low‐cycle fatigue properties and cyclic behaviors of two pure Cu samples skinned with different volume fractions of gradient nanograined (GNG) layer are investigated under total strain‐amplitude‐controlled fatigue tests.

Abstract

Wetting‐Assisted Crack‐ and Wrinkle‐Free Transfer of Wafer‐Scale Graphene onto Arbitrary Substrates over a Wide Range of Surface Energies

Here, the polymer‐supported wet transfer processes of chemical vapor deposition‐grown graphene are thoroughly examined stage‐by‐stage and it is found that lamination wrinkles are generated as a result of the high contact angles of the trapped transfer medium liquids.

Abstract

Skin‐Inspired Electronics and Its Applications in Advanced Intelligent Systems

Recent interdisciplinary progress in flexible materials, devices, and system designs has brought about an emerging paradigm of skin‐like multifunctional electronic platforms named skin‐inspired electronics.

Abstract

Advances in 3D Thin‐Film Li‐Ion Batteries

The status and progress toward solid‐state 3D thin‐film Li‐ion microbatteries is reviewed. Planar thin‐film batteries (TFBs) are commercially available. A major issue with planar TFBs, however, is that the total footprint capacity is limited, as only a relatively small electrode volume is available for energy storage.

Abstract

Development of flexible Li‐ion batteries for flexible electronics

In this critical review, recent developments of flexible lithium‐ion batteries (FLIBs) for flexible electronic devices are provided. The innovative designs of cell configuration for bendable and stretchable FLIBs, selection of active materials, and evaluation methods for FLIBs are discussed.

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eBook 2: Thin Film Metrology

In this 43-page eBook, an overview on the use of laser scanning confocal microscopy in materials science is followed by three recent articles on the fabrication, characterization and applications of thin films.

Article Digest

Boosted UV Photodetection Performance in Chemically Etched Amorphous Gallium(III) Oxide Thin-Film Transistors

Bottom-gate amorphous gallium oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs) were fabricated to boost their UV photodetection properties. A simple chemical-etching solution was employed that is easy to use, low cost, and compatible with traditional lithographic processes to selectively etch a-Gallium(III) oxide films.

Article Digest

A Novel Slicing Method for Thin Supercapacitors

Thin and flexible supercapacitors with low cost and uniform thicknesses were fabricated by a new and efficient slicing method. The morphology of the thin supercapacitors was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and laser scanning confocal microscopy, which revealed uniform thicknesses and well-formed interfaces between the electrode and the gel electrolyte.

Article Digest

Multiscale and Uniform Liquid Metal Thin‐Film Patterning Based on Soft Lithography for 3D Heterogeneous Integrated Soft Microsystems: Additive Stamping and Subtractive Reverse Stamping

This paper demonstrates multiscale and uniform EGaIn thin‐film patterning by utilizing an additive stamping process for large‐scale soft electronics and a subtractive reverse stamping process for microscale soft electronics.

Article Digest

The Use of Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy (LSCM) in Materials Science

Herein, several examples that exploit the laser scanning confocal microscope’s capabilities of pseudo-infinite depth of field imaging, topographic imaging, fluorescence imaging, and photo-stimulated luminescence imaging for the characterization of different materials are provided.

Abstract

Thin Film Adhesion of Flexible Electronics Influenced by Interlayers

With the emergence of flexible electronics in the fields of medical sensors and foldable displays, there is a need to understand the interfacial behavior between active conducting elements and compliant polymer substrates, on which the devices are fabricated.

Abstract

Initiated Chemical Vapor Deposition: A Versatile Tool for Various Device Applications

This review describes significant implications of and recent progress made in iCVD‐based technologies in three fields: electronic devices, surface engineering, and biomedical applications.

Abstract

Various Techniques for Preparation of Thin‐Film Composite Mixed‐Matrix Membranes for Carbondioxide Separation

A comprehensive review is provided for capturing new details of progress achieved in developing TFC‐MMMs with detailed performance of gas separation in the previous few years.

Abstract

Recent Progress in Solution‐Processed Copper‐Chalcogenide Thin‐Film Solar Cells

This Review summarizes the recent progress in solution‐processed Cu chalcogenides for thin‐film solar cells, with emphasis on the precursor solution deposited by spray pyrolysis and spin coating.

Abstract

Solution Processable Metal Oxide Thin Film Deposition and Material Growth for Electronic and Photonic Devices

A comprehensive review of recent advances in solution processing and growth of metal‐oxide thin films for electronic and photonic devices is presented.

Abstract

Controlling the Thickness of the Surface Oxide Layer on Cu Nanoparticles for the Fabrication of Conductive Structures by Ink‐Jet Printing

With the aim of preparing a high performance conductive ink, the surface chemistry of Cu nanoparticles was controlled so as to minimize surface oxidation.

Method

Thin Film Characterization

This brief introduction will discuss some of the techniques to characterize thin films. It will highlight laser scanning confocal microscopy as a promising method to characterize the morphology of a wide variety of thin-film materials.

Abstract

A Highly Sensitive Capacitive‐Based Soft Pressure Sensor Based on a Conductive Fabric and a Microporous Dielectric Layer

In this paper, the design and manufacturing of a highly sensitive capacitive‐based soft pressure sensor for wearable electronics applications are presented.

Abstract

Printing of µm structures with nano inks using a novel combination of high‐resolution plasma printing and subsequent rotogravure printing

Reel‐to‐reel area‐selective microplasma treatment of polymer films using the plasma printing technique in combination with subsequent rotogravure printing was investigated.

Abstract

Strain‐Induced Band‐Gap Tuning of 2D‐SnSSe Flakes for Application in Flexible Sensors

Herein, a ternary SnSSe alloy nanosheet‐based strain sensor is reported showing an enhanced gauge factor (GF) up to 69.7 and a good reproducibility and linearity within strain of 0.9%. Such sensor holds high‐sensitive features under low strain, and demonstrates an improved sensitivity with a decrease in the membrane thickness.

Abstract

Spatially Confining Surface Roughness on Exponentially Growing Polyelectrolyte Multilayer Films

Introducing roughness features onto materials' surface can serve as an efficient strategy for novel or enhanced surface functionality. Surface roughness can be developed spontaneously on exponentially growing polyelectrolyte multilayer films without any postassembly treatment.

Abstract

Recent Progress in Inkjet‐Printed Thin‐Film Transistors

In this review article, recent progress in printing‐based thin‐film transistors is presented from materials to applications.

Abstract

Flexible Micropillar Electrode Arrays for In Vivo Neural Activity Recordings

Here, the facile fabrication of a novel flexible micropillar electrode array (µPEA) is described based on a biotemplate method. The flexible and compliant µPEA can readily integrate with the soft surface of a rat cerebral cortex.

Abstract

Crack Control in Biotemplated Gold Films for Wide‐Range, Highly Sensitive Strain Sensing

In the design of strain sensors, there is usually a trade‐off between sensitivity and sensing range. Herein, a crack‐based strain sensor with engineered microstructure is facilely prepared through a biotemplating method.

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Advanced Optical Metrology Hub Video

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