Does Thin Film Thickness Impact XRD Results?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the impact of thin film thickness on X-ray diffraction (XRD) results, exploring whether varying thickness influences the quality and interpretation of the data obtained. The scope includes theoretical considerations and experimental implications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if a thin film is too thin, the XRD results may be compromised due to interference from the substrate signals, which could obscure the data relevant to the thin film itself.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of substrate effects by suggesting that if the film is suspended, as in certain MEMS structures, the substrate's influence might be negligible.
  • One participant notes a correlation between the thickness of zinc oxide films and certain peak ratios in XRD results, indicating that thickness may have a measurable effect on the data, although they suggest that identification of the material may not be significantly impacted.
  • There is a suggestion that the experimental setup plays a crucial role in determining how thickness affects the analysis of thin films.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the extent to which thin film thickness affects XRD results, with some emphasizing the potential for substrate interference and others suggesting that experimental conditions can mitigate this issue. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the overall impact of thickness.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include assumptions about the experimental setup and the specific conditions under which XRD is performed, as well as the potential variability in results based on different materials and thicknesses.

kimmylsm
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will thickness of a thin film affect the result of xrd? if too thin, will not get the best result?
 
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kimmylsm said:
will thickness of a thin film affect the result of xrd? if too thin, will not get the best result?

Well, think about it. If it is too thin, then you'll get signal from the substrate as well! If you only intend to study the thin film, do you think getting other signals that is NOT from the object of your study is beneficial or helpful?

Zz.
 
What if the film is suspended and there's no substrate anywhere close to the film>? I know it's been done on MEMS structures, at least.

I'd say it depends on how you set up the experiment, you might have to analize a thin film if necessary...
 
Thickness does seem to effect XRD to some extent. I've been looking at zinc oxide for about 3 years, and there is some correlation between thickness and some of the peak ratios. I wouldn't worry if your just trying to id though.
 

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