Effects of Argon Partial Pressure Variations on Wettability and Anti-icing Characteristics of Aluminum Doped ZnO Thin Films

Abstract

When ice forms on solid surfaces, it can cause issues in many different sectors (aircraft, electricity lines, etc.). Surfaces and coatings with hydrophobic qualities may be used in anti-icing applications. The purpose of this work is to utilize RF Magneton Sputtering to deposit AZO thin coatings, which will slow the accumulation of ice on the surface. The effects of changes in argon partial pressure on the anti-icing, wettability, optical, and structural properties of the resulting thin films have been experimentally investigated. X-ray diffraction demonstrated a (002) peak of ZnO, the intensity of the peak diminishes with an increase in partial pressure. The band gap was measured to be between 2.98 and 3.15 eV, and the average maximum transmittance was observed to be around 82% for 50% partial pressure and 71% for 33% partial pressure, confirming the transparency of the thin films. Wettability studies revealed that the films are hydrophobic with a maximum contact angle of 127.5°, which was deposited at lower partial pressure. Films deposited at 33% partial pressure delayed the formation of ice on the surface by 4.5 folds when compared to an uncoated substrate.

Characterization of Reactive Sputtered Chromium Oxynitride Coatings Developed on Glass Substrate

“…S. Han et al found that increasing the gas flow rate from 25 to 100 sccm reduced the roughness from 0.43 to 0.38 nm. Coating roughness was observed to be influenced by the flow rate and the size of the particles [43,44]. Higher deposition times result in progressively thicker coatings of chromium oxynitride.…”

The Impact of Temperature and Power Variation on the Optical, Wettability, and Anti-Icing Characteristics of AZO Coatings

“…The use of coating technologies has the ability to confer a number of diverse characteristics and functions upon substrates. These characteristics and functions include anti-microbial qualities, hydrophobicity, and anti-icing capabilities [10,11]. As a consequence of this, development of multifunctional films and innovations, as well as their investigation and design have garnered a significant amount of attention and effort due to the economic value of these materials and the high demand that has resulted from the vast variety of uses the materials have.…”