Investigation of WO3 electrodeposition leading to nanostructured thin films

Nanostructured WO3 represents a promising material for electrochromic and sensing devices. In this scenario, electrodeposition is a promising low-cost approach for careful production. The electrodeposition of tungsten oxide film from a peroxo-tungstic-acid (PTA) solution is investigated. WO3 is synthetized onto Indium doped Tin Oxide (ITO) substrates, in a variety of shapes, from a fragmentary, thin layer up to a thick continuous film. Samples were investigated by scanning electron (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), X-ray Diffraction analysis (XRD), energy gap measurement. Electrodeposition current curves are compared with characterization results to model the growth process. Early stages of electrodeposition are characterized by a transient cathodic current revealing an instantaneous nucleation followed by a diffusion limited process. A quantitative analysis of W deposition rate and current at working electrode validates a microscopic model for WO3 electrodeposition driving the process towards nanostructured versus continuous WO3 film.