Synthesis, characterization and photoresponse study of undoped and transition metal (Co, Ni, Mn) doped ZnO thin films

• ZnO and transition metal doped ZnO thin films were successfully synthesized by chemical solution deposition method.
• Good crystalline quality ZnO films were obtained by the simple cost effective synthesis.
• We compare the photoresponse behaviour of transition metal doped ZnO films.

The synthesis, characterization and photoresponse studies of undoped and transition metal doped zinc oxide thin films are carried out in this work, in prospect of visible light photo detection and sensor applications. The undoped and transition metal ions such as, Co, Ni and Mn doped ZnO films in this study were synthesized by chemical solution deposition, involving spin-coating. We have characterized the deposited films using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, photoluminescence and UV–vis spectroscopy studies. The devices of the films for photoresponse study were fabricated by top Ag contacts on the film surface in metal–semiconductor–metal configuration. The current–voltage characteristics and switching measurements of these devices were studied under the illumination of an incandescent lamp. We found a high ON/OFF ratio of 8 and highest photocurrent density of 0.7 mA/cm2 for Ni doped ZnO film.