In this preliminary work, we show the ability of the Sol-Gel technique to introduce a solid phase into the nanopores of porous silicon. From RBS-C analysis, a complete incorporation of both tin and oxygen atoms over most of the porous layer thickness has been evidenced. TEM observations revealed the presence of small crystallites of cassiterite embedded in the porous layer. Providing that the silicon porosity does not exceed 70%, this solid phase does not degrade the skeleton of porous silicon and does not inhibit photoluminescence.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.