Synthesis and optimization of SnS absorber layer by spin-coating process and Taguchi approach

Abstract

In this paper, a synthesis of SnS thin films using sol-gel spin coating method and optimization of the parameters influencing the experimental process. Taguchi experiment design with a L9(34) orthogonal array was used to optimize several parameters such as the annealing temperature, annealing time, concentration, and [S]/[Sn] ratio. To perform the necessary tests three levels of each factor were chosen. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) and signal-to-noise (S/N) was used to obtain the good optical properties (optimal band-gap) at the best combination of choosing factors. The obtained results indicate that the most influencing factors in the preparation of SnS thin films are the concentration and the [S]/[Sn] ratio. To confirm the results obtained, the test validation was performed using the optimal conditions. SnS thin films obtained at optimal condition were analyzed using X-Ray diffraction, UV–visible spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and four-point probe.