Dual Solution Synthesis and Characterization of Sns:Zns Alloyed Thin Films and Possible Applications in Solar Systems and Others

Abstract

 Elizabeth C. Nwaokorongwu, Daniel A. Asiegbu, Lebe Nnanna, Ugochukwu Joseph, Akpu Nwamaka and K.U.P. Okpechi

Energy is required for the creation of wealth and sustainability of development. The importance of energy in economic development has been recognized historically but the equitable distribution of energy amongst the masses has generated great concern in recent times.  This study was conducted to investigate the influence of varying annealing temperatures on the synthesis and characterization of SnS:ZnS alloyed thin films for solar applications. SnS:ZnS alloyed thin films were successfully deposited on glass substrates using two solutions-based methods: electroless and SILAR. The deposited alloyed sulphides were annealed between (373-423) K using a master chef annealing machine. The crystallographic studies were done using X-ray diffractometer and scanning electron microscope which indicates that the samples are polycrystalline and have cubic crystal systems. Rutherford Back Scattering analysis confirmed the percentage of the elements of tin, zinc and sulphur in the alloyed sulphide thin films. The results of the findings revealed that alloyed materials were deposited. The deposited materials were uniform and adherent to the substrates. The structural properties show that SnS:ZnS are polycrystalline. The microstructure shows the optical micrograph of the deposited samples. The properties exhibited make the films good material for protective coating, window coating, galvanization of metal and non-metal surfaces to prevent corrosion, etc. These properties also enhanced the material suitability for photovoltaic (PV) in solar energy conversion, sensors for the detection of poisonous substances most especially in the Oil-producing areas, light emitting diode (LED) and flat panel displays for optoelectronic applications.