Thin TiO₂ films prepared by inkjet printing of the reverse micelles sol–gel composition

The presented study deals with the adaptation and optimization of the reverse micelles sol–gel composition to make it feasible for inkjet printing. The solvent choice and viscosity adjustment issues essential for reliable jetting performance are discussed. The layer morphology and material properties were in detail investigated by optical, scanning electron and atomic force microscopy as well as Raman spectroscopy and XRD analysis. Photocatalytic activity of the printed layers was evaluated on the basis of stearic acid thin film degradation monitored by FTIR spectrometry. The photoexcitation properties of the TiO₂ layers and the ability of their photocurrent generation were investigated by electrochemical methods.