Preparation of Sm2S3 thin films by liquid phase deposition method with self-assembled monolayers

Sm2S3 thin films were prepared on Si(1 0 0) substrates using SmCl3 and Na2S2O3 as source material by liquid phase deposition method on self-assembled monolayers. The influence of the precursor solution pH value on the phase composition, surface morphology and optical properties of the as-deposited films were investigated. The as-deposited Sm2S3 thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) and photoluminescence spectrum (PL). Results show that it is important to control the solution pH value during the deposition process and monophase Sm2S3 thin films with orientation growth along (1 0 3) direction can be achieved when pH 3.0, using citrate as a template agent. The as-deposited thin films exhibit a dense and crystalline surface morphology. Good transmittance in the visible spectrum and excellent absorbency of ultraviolet light of the thin films are observed, and the band gap of the thin films first decrease and then increase with the increase of the pH value. The as-deposited thin films also exhibit red photoluminescence properties under visible light excitation. With the increase of the solution pH value, the PL properties of Sm2S3 thin films are obviously improved.

► Sm2S3 thin films with orientation growth along (1 0 3) direction.
► The influence of the precursor solution pH value.
► Liquid phase deposition method on self-assembled monolayers.
► Red photoluminescence properties.