Antimony tin oxide (ATO) possesses excellent optical properties, chemical and mechanical stabilities, and high conductivity. Antimony oxide nanopowders are mainly used in electronics and optics applications, where they are utilized for their high electrical conductivity and optical transparency.
The incorporation of antimony tin oxide nanoparticles in coating systems, films or composites may help in reducing the buildup of static charge and provide effective management of radiant heat. Attenuating infrared energy from the sun or other sources allows cooler temperatures to be maintained during warm periods and control of heat loss during colder periods.
Main applications of antimony tin oxide nanopowders are:
• Conductive polymer nanocomposites
• IR attenuation films and coatings
• Transparent and conductive electrode coatings for displays and electronics
• Anti-static coatings
• Smart windows
• Electrical and chemical sensors
• EMI Shielding coatings
• Humidity sensors
• Catalysis
• Gas sensors
• Solar batteries
Producers of antimony tin oxide nanopowders include Nanophase Technolgies, Nanomag, Sigma-Aldrich, Inframat and Keeling & Walker. The StanoStat CPM range of ATO products from Keeling & Walker exhibit nano-particulate primary particle size and can be used for transparent electrically conductive coatings on a variety of substrates including glass and plastic. Additionally, these materials are ideally suited for the production of sputtering targets. The incorporation of NanoTek® antimony tin oxide products from Nanophase/Alfa Aesar in coating systems, films or composites may help in reducing the buildup of static charge.
DRIVERS
Due to their unique combination of transparency in the visible range and high electrical conductivity, ATOs are in demand as electrodes in thin layer transparent devices in growth sectors such as solar-cells, flat-panel displays and sensors.
CHALLENGES
Common methods to prepare ATO nanoparticles can produce inconsistent powder quality.
