(1-x)Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4/xLaMnO3 (0.1≤x≤0.9): A composite NTC thin film with low resistance, high sensitivity and strong light absorption

Abstract

Composite thin films consisting of (1-x)Mn1.56Co0.96Ni0.48O4/xLaMnO3 (MCN/LM, 0.1≤x ≤ 0.9) were synthesized by chemical solution deposition, and their microstructure, cation distribution, optical, and electrical properties were investigated. The crystal structure of the composites is comprised of a mixed phase of spinel and perovskite, with gradual particle refinement as the LM content increases. At the same time, the resistance of the composite thin films decreases, primarily due to film densification and an increase in the highly conductive component. The thermal constant of the thin films increases from 3058.8 to 4236.1 K as the composite content varies. At x = 0.5, the composite exhibits the highest activation energy, which is determined by the discontinuity of grain boundaries and the energy bands influenced by the concentrations of Mn3+ and Mn4+. In addition, the resonance coupling between the strong polar LM and MCN can significantly enhance the infrared light absorption at an appropriate ratio.