Fabrication and Optical Characteristics of Thin Films Comprising VO2 and SnO2

Abstract

As the demand for sustainable energy solutions rises, the development of energy-efficient technologies becomes imperative. Smart windows, incorporating thermochromic materials, emerge as promising contributors to reducing building energy consumption. Vanadium dioxide (VO₂), known for its thermochromic properties, faces challenges in commercial application due to its limited visible light transmittance. This study addresses these challenges by utilizing quartz as a substrate and depositing VO₂ thin films using radio frequency sputtering. To enhance optical performance, a bilayer structure was created by integrating this single-layer film with SnO₂. Room-temperature X-ray diffraction confirmed the single-phase growth of VO₂ on quartz, and XRD validated the proper fabrication of films. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy at room temperature substantiated the improved transmittance of the SnO₂/VO₂ bilayer, marking a significant advancement toward more efficient and commercially viable smart windows. This research highlights the potential of SnO₂-based thin films in mitigating the visible light transmittance limitations of VO₂, thus opening avenues for advanced smart window applications with enhanced energy-saving capabilities. Additionally, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) was employed to compare the roughness of the films, and the impact of reduced roughness on optical transmittance was evaluated. The results contribute to the optimization of smart window technologies for broader sustainable energy applications.