Optimization of Electrospray Deposition Conditions of ZnO Thin Films for Ammonia Sensing

This study focuses on the influence of electrospray deposition parameters on the morphology, topography, optical and sensing properties of ZnO films deposited on gold electrodes of quartz crystal resonators. The substrate temperature, precursor feed rate and emitter’s voltage were varied. Zinc acetate dehydrate dissolved in a mixture of deionized water, ethanol and acetic acid was used as a precursor. The surface morphology and average roughness of the films were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and 3D optical profilometry, respectively, while the optical properties were investigated by diffuse reflectance and photoluminescence measurements. The sensing response toward ammonia was tested and verified by the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) method. The studies demonstrated that electrospray deposition parameters strongly influence the surface morphology, roughness and gas sensing properties of the films. The deposition parameters were optimized in order for the highest sensitivity toward ammonia to be achieved. The successful implementation of the electrospray method as a simple, versatile and low-cost method for deposition of ammonia-sensitive and selective ZnO films used as a sensing medium in QCM sensors was demonstrated and discussed.