Pulsed electrodeposition of oxygen-free tin monosulfide thin films using lactic acid/sodium lactate buffered electrolytes

In this study, tin monosulfide (SnS) thin films have been prepared on indium-tin-oxide-covered glass substrates from an acidic electrolyte containing a pH buffer of lactic acid/sodium lactate using pulsed electrodeposition method. Results from Auger electron spectroscopy confirmed that nearly oxygen-free and stoichiometric SnS thin films were attained. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron micrograph studies indicated the formation of a smooth α-SnS thin film with the orthorhombic structure. Moreover, optical transmission spectroscopy showed a direct optical band gap of 1.39 eV and the photoelectrochemical measurements revealed the p-type conductivity.