SrBi2Nb2O9 Thin Films Deposited by Dip Coating Using Aqueous Solution

A new approach for SrBi2Nb2O9 (SBN) thin ®lms synthesis using aqueous solution was successfully experienced. The deposition solution was prepared from Sr±Bi±Nb mixed-citrate solution, requiring no special atmosphere and using common reagents. Films were deposited by dip coating onto Pt/Ti/SiO2/ Si(100) substrates and heat treated at temperatures ranging from 300 to 700 C. The process of formation and crystallization of SrBi2Nb2O9 thin ®lms, prepared by the aqueous solution method, have been studied with particular emphasis on the microstructure of crystallized ®lms. Crystalline phases formation were followed by grazing incident X-ray di€raction (GIXRD), microstructure characterization was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and surface roughness were observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). To reach the desired thickness, substrates were dipped in the deposition solution twice, forming double-layered ®lms. The thickness of each layer ranged from 80 to 100 nm. # 1999 Elsevier Science Limited. All rights reserved