Optical Properties of Self-Assembled Nanoparticle Thin Films (thesis)

Abstract

In this thesis, we explore the optical properties of silicon-dioxide (silica) thin-films generated through the use of a process known as ionic self-assembly of monolayers (ISAM). This process may be repeated for multiple bilayers with the ultimate goal of producing multilayer thin films with desirable optical properties. We model these results mathematically using cooperative sequential adsorption with evaporation (CSAE) models. These models can accurately predict the particle density of multiple layer nanoparticle structures, which can then be used to predict the index of refraction of a multiple layer structure. In addition, we explore the effect of external electric fields applied across the glass substrate during the dipping process, as well as the behavior of titania nanoparticles in single layer thin films.