Development of SiO2:GeO2(Ge°) ceramic nanocomposites via sol-gel synthesis for thin-film applications in solar panel manufacturing

Abstract

In this work, we studied the interaction of dopant substances with the surface of the SiO2 framework of xerogel. For this purpose, samples of SiO2:GeO2 and SiO2:Geº compositions synthesized at a temperature of 800 °C were prepared. The studies were carried out using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed a clearly defined globular structure and high homogeneity of the morphology of the samples. The introduction of germanium contributed to the formation of a coating on the surface of SiO2 globules and an increase in the size of aggregates, which is associated with the agglomeration of germanium ions. Morphology analysis revealed a porous structure, especially pronounced in SiO2:GeO2 samples, which can improve the mechanical properties of the materials. Chemical composition and phase analysis confirmed a change in the ratios of elements, indicating the effect of germanium on the physicochemical properties of the xerogel. The obtained results open up new prospects for the application of such nanocomposites in thin-film technologies and composite materials.