Structural, morphological and optical properties of nanocrystalline cadmium selenide thin films

Nanocrystalline cadmium selenide thin films have been deposited on non-conducting glass substrates. The film samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, UV–vis-NIR reflection/absorption spectroscopy and TEP techniques. The annealed film samples showed a crystalline nature with a cubic crystal structure. The optical analysis showed direct band to band type of transition. The band gap of film sample was found to be in the order of 1.7 eV. The electrical conductivity of the film sample was found to be in the order of 10−6 (Ω cm)−1. TEP measurements show n-type of conductivity.

Research highlights▶ CdSe thin films deposited first time by using malic acid as a complexing agent. ▶ The film samples were characterized by XRD, SEM, UV–vis-NIR spectroscopy and TEP techniques. ▶ Nanocrystalline CdSe film can be synthesized at room temperature.