The optimization and role of Ti surface doping in thermochromic VO2 film

In the present task, Ti surface-doped VO2 films have been prepared by rapid thermal annealing of (ultra-thin)Ti/ V metal films on plain glass in order to improve the unbalanced thermochromic properties of VO2 films. The samples were analyzed for composition, crystallinity, surface topography, and optical properties. As the Ti content increases, the surface particles become smaller and more uniform, resulting in a lower transition tem-perature of 44.9? and an extremely narrow hysteresis width of 2.36?. Meanwhile, a significant increase in luminous transmittance (from 28.4% to 39.6%) accompanies the optical band gap widening. The convenient method of surface engineering provides a new strategy for the performance optimization of smart windows.

Automated summary

Ti surface-doped VO2 films were prepared on plain glass using rapid thermal annealing, aiming to enhance the thermochromic properties of VO2 films. The addition of Ti resulted in smaller, more uniform surface particles, leading to a lower transition temperature and a narrower hysteresis width. Additionally, the optical band gap widening led to a significant increase in luminous transmittance. This convenient surface engineering method offers a new strategy for optimizing the performance of smart windows.