Electrochemical deposition of yttrium oxide

Thin films of yttrium hydroxide were obtained from aqueous Y(NO3)3 and YCl3 salt solutions via cathodic electrodeposition. The electrodeposition yield was studied under various experimental conditions. By varying the current density, deposition time and yttrium salt concentration, the amount of the deposited material could be controlled. Electrochemical intercalation of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) into the hydroxide deposits has been demonstrated and the mechanism of intercalation has been discussed. The deposits were studied by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Formation of crystalline yttrium oxide films from the hydroxide precursor was observed at 600 °C.