Characterization of elecrophoretically deposited nanocrystalline titanium dioxide films

In the present study, nanocrystalline TiO₂ powders were electrophoretically deposited on the surface of a stainless steel substrate. Post heat treatment at 600 or 800 °C was performed to improve the adhesion strength. The as-prepared and heat-treated samples were characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and synchrotron X-ray absorption spectroscopy. Experimental results show that the as-deposited nanocrystalline TiO₂ films exhibited anatase phase. Heat treatment at 600 °C not only retained the original nanocrystalline TiO₂ anatase phase but also increased the adhesion strength of the film. Anatase to rutile transformation was observed when the TiO₂ films were heat-treated at 800 °C. Crack formation due to the phase transformation was also noted and further decreased the adhesive properties of the TiO₂ films.