Regulating effect of SiO2 interlayer on optical properties of ZnO thin films

► ZnO/SiO2 nanocomposite films with periodic structure were prepared by electron beam evaporation technique. ► The SiO2 interlayer presents a significant modulation effect on the optical properties of ZnO thin films. ► The photoluminescence of ZnO/SiO2 nanocomposite films is largely enhanced compared with that of pure ZnO thin films. ► The ZnO/SiO2 nanocomposite films have potential applications in light-emitting devices and flat panel displays.