Preparation and characterization of nanostructured Ni(OH)2 and NiO thin films by a simple solution growth process

Nanostructured Ni(OH)2 thin films were prepared by a simple solution growth process with F(-) and NH3 used as Ni2+ coordination agents, and ammonia hydroxide solution used as OH(-) supplier to accelerate the hydrolyzation of nickel complex species. The results showed Ni(OH)2 thin films were constructed mainly with hexagonal beta-Ni(OH)2 nanorods; the F(-) and NH3 in reactive solutions played important roles in the film growth process; and solution pH had great influence on the morphologies of thin films, which was explained by the competition of Ni(OH)2 nucleation and growth in solutions. NiO crystallinity thin films were obtained by annealing Ni(OH)2 thin films at 400 degrees C for 2 h and the morphologies of the Ni(OH)2 thin films were sustained well during the annealed process.