Abstract
CuZnO (CZO) films have received considerable attention, owing to their potential applications in semiconductor devices, including gas sensors or solar cells. However, exactly how these films affect the properties of CZO films by using different Cu sources has seldom been investigated. This study demonstrates the feasibility of preparing CZO films by using different Cu sources via a simple ultrasonic spray method, in which copper nitrate and copper acetate were used as copper sources. Optical properties of CZO films prepared by copper nitrate and copper acetate were also investigated, based on transmittance and photoluminescence measurements. Additionally, the composition and the morphology of the films were investigated using the X-ray diffraction analysis and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The results of this study demonstrate that the CZO films prepared by using copper acetate exhibit better optical properties.
Highlights
As a wide direct bandgap (3.36 eV) II-VI compound semiconductor, zinc oxide (ZnO) has a large exciton binding energy of 60mV with a hexagonal wurtzite structure [1]
This finding suggests that the thin film is polycrystalline and has a hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO phase
The SEM images indicate that the films are both polycrystalline, which corresponds to the XRD analysis results and implies the difficulty in controlling the morphology of the film when copper nitrate is used
Summary
As a wide direct bandgap (3.36 eV) II-VI compound semiconductor, zinc oxide (ZnO) has a large exciton binding energy of 60mV with a hexagonal wurtzite structure [1]. Many studies have focused on the change of physical properties when Cu was induced into ZnO. Several copper sources, including copper nitrate, copper acetate and copper chloride, have been used to prepare CZO films via the chemical pyrolysis method [12,13,14]. Exactly how copper sources affect the physical properties of CZO films has seldom been addressed. In this study, owing to its high growth rate, large area uniformity, and inexpensive preparation, the ultrasonic spray method is adopted to prepare CZO films by using different Cu sources [14,15]. The structures, morphologies, and properties are measured using various approaches
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
