ZnO seed layer deposition via spin coating for nanostructure synthesis: a mini-review

Abstract

Abstract Zinc oxide nanorods (ZNRs) are widely studied for applications in photocatalysis, solar cells, UV photodetectors, sensors, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and random lasers. The quality of ZNRs is strongly influenced by the underlying seed layer, which affects their structural, morphological, and optical properties. Among various synthesis techniques, the sol-gel spin coating method offers a cost-effective and efficient approach for producing a ZnO seed layer (ZSL), enabling controlled solvent evaporation and film formation. Optimizing the coating solution is crucial for achieving uniformity, considering chemical reactivity and surface tension factors. This mini-review explores the important role of the spin-coating technique in ZSL fabrication and its impact on synthesizing high-quality ZNRs. It provides an overview of ZnO nanostructures, details the seed layer preparation process, explains the physics of spin coating, discusses key factors affecting seed layer quality via spin coating, limiting its industrial adoption, and concludes with insights on advancements in ZSL growth for optimal ZNR quality.