Optical and electrical characterisation of polyelectrolyte self-assembled thin films

Polyelectrolyte self-assembled multilayer films were prepared by alternation of poly(allylamine) hydrochloride (PAA) and poly(sodium 4-sterenesulfonate) (PSS) using a fully automatic, computer-controlled deposition set-up. The produced films were characterised with ellipsometry and surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and both film thickness and refractive index were evaluated. Thickness per PAA/PSS bilayer was found to increase from 0.58 to 1.26 nm after a few dips indicating an improved film transfer and then homogeneity. Current–voltage characteristics of Au/(PAA/PSS)n/Al sandwich structures were measured and filmsʹ electrical conductivity has also been evaluated.