Oriented growth of Srn+1TinO3n+1 Ruddlesden–Popper phases in chemical solution deposited thin films

Oriented thin films of perovskite-related Srn+1TinO3n+1 Ruddlesden–Popper phases (n=1, 2, 3) were grown on (001) single-crystalline SrTiO3 substrates. Preparation of the films was carried out by wet chemical deposition from metalorganic Sr–Ti solutions (rich in Sr) and subsequent conversion into the crystalline state by thermal treatment in air atmosphere at a maximum temperature of 700 °C. Solutions were prepared by a modified Pechini method. The films were investigated by wide-angle X-ray scattering and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The phase content of powders prepared from the dried solutions and annealed under similar conditions differed from that present in the films, i.e. only polycrystalline SrTiO3 was detected together with oxides of Ti and Sr.

Graphical abstractCross-sectional image of an oriented chemical solution deposited thin film obtained by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Periodical spacings corresponding to SrTiO3 substrate (right) and Sr2TiO4 Ruddlesden–Popper phase (n=1) film region (left) are marked.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide