Factors that contribute to the growth of Ag@TiO2 nanofibers by plasma deposition

A model experiment on the plasma deposition of TiO2 on silver is described which can help to identify the factors that control the formation of supported Ag@TiO2 nanofibers during plasma deposition of TiO2 at T > 130 degrees C. The plasma oxidation of silver and the plasma deposition of TiO2 on dispersed metal particles have also been studied and correlated with film topography. The species in the plasma have been analysed and fiber growth has been followed as a function of deposition time. The experimental evidence indicates that factors controlling fiber formation include silver mobility, stress relaxation of oxidized silver surfaces, chemical reduction of silver oxide, and inhomogeneities of the plasma sheath.