XPS and AFM investigations on silver‐based photoimageable thick film systems

Abstract

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to ascertain chemical changes occurring at various stages involved in processing of silver-based photoimageable thick films; and to determine ensuing topographical features which other wise appeared to be hindered in 2D scanning electron microscopy. Design/methodology/approach -Surface sensitive techniques, viz. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used. Findings -Interfacial adhesion of silver film with substrate (Al 2 O 3 ) was specifically looked into with respect to role played by photoimaging (before and after exposure to ultra-violet light). XPS results revealed occurrence of subtle chemical changes in terms of unsaturation to saturation in CZC bonding and also an interesting CZAl bonding which presumably improves mechanical adhesion of unfired film with the alumina substrate. AFM was carried out to examine the surface roughness, particle size, and microstructure of film which are very important from the standpoint of high-frequency applications. Originality/value -Surface sensitive techniques like XPS and AFM were exclusively used in order to characterize silver-based photoimageable thick films.

Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction Reaction at Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) Electrode in Neutral Solution: 5-amino-2-naphthalene-sulfonic acid (ANS) as a Reducing Agent for AgNPs

“…This is comparable to the standard Ag 3d binding energies (3d 5/2 = 368.3 eV, 3d 3/2 = 374.3 eV). 32 Further, in the N1s spectrum, two peaks were observed at around 399, and > 400 eV, as shown in Fig. 4C, which could be attributed to imines, and positively charged nitrogen, respectively.…”

“…The ORR was earlier observed at AgNPs modified electrode. 32,33 Here, we have explored ORR using AgNPs electrode in oxygen saturated pH 7 PBS solutions, and the results are shown in Fig. 5.…”