Optimization of Nano-Process Deposition Parameters Based on Gravitational Search Algorithm

• Main Authors: Norlina Mohd Sabri, Nor Diyana Md Sin, Mazidah Puteh, Mohamad Rusop Mahmood
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2016-06-01
• Series: Computers
• Subjects: gravitational search algorithm; optimization; magnetron sputtering process; deposition parameters
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2073-431X/5/2/12

This research is focusing on the radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering process, a physical vapor deposition technique which is widely used in thin film production. This process requires the optimized combination of deposition parameters in order to obtain the desirable thin film. The conventional method in the optimization of the deposition parameters had been reported to be costly and time consuming due to its trial and error nature. Thus, gravitational search algorithm (GSA) technique had been proposed to solve this nano-process parameters optimization problem. In this research, the optimized parameter combination was expected to produce the desirable electrical and optical properties of the thin film. The performance of GSA in this research was compared with that of Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Artificial Immune System (AIS) and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO). Based on the overall results, the GSA optimized parameter combination had generated the best electrical and an acceptable optical properties of thin film compared to the others. This computational experiment is expected to overcome the problem of having to conduct repetitive laboratory experiments in obtaining the most optimized parameter combination. Based on this initial experiment, the adaptation of GSA into this problem could offer a more efficient and productive way of depositing quality thin film in the fabrication process.