Conclusions
We demonstrate the capability of the finite element approach for simulating the evolution of the surface of thin films grown by OVJP. By comparing experimental and simulation results, it should be possible to extrapolate the various model parameters, and relate them either directly or indirectly to process conditions (jet flow rate, temperatures, etc.) and material properties (diffusivity, elastic modulus, thermal expansion coefficient, etc.), which may be difficult to measure directly. These findings provide a better understanding of the thermodynamics and kinetics of the OVJP process.
Future Work
We plan to apply this simulation methodology to films grown from other materials and/or under other process conditions. Ideally, this relatively simple computational approach will provide some level of predictive power for optimizing OVJP parameters to grow films with the desired surface features/structures.
Acknowledgments
We gratefully acknowledge Professor Wei Lu, for teaching this course on the basic principles of modeling microstructural evolution, as well as for his helpful guidance and suggestions for our specific problem.