The effect of UV irradiation on nanocrysatlline zinc oxide thin films related to gas sensing characteristics

The effect of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation on the nanocrystalline ZnO thin films was investigated. The degree of crystallinity, electrical conductivity, optical properties and surface properties of ZnO thin films were measured as a function of UV irradiation time. It was found that the degree of crystallinity and electrical properties of ZnO films were affected by UV irradiation, however, no noticeable change in the surface morphology was observed. The gas sensing properties of as-deposited and UV irradiated films were also measured. It was observed that the gas sensing properties were affected by the UV irradiation. The irradiation time less than 5 min has improved the sensor while the irradiation time more than 5 min degraded the sensor characteristics for a UV power density of 2.45 W cm−2.

Research highlights▶ The effect of ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation on the nanocrystalline ZnO thin films was investigated. ▶ The degree of crystallinity, electrical conductivity, optical properties and surface properties of ZnO thin films were measured as a function of UV irradiation time. ▶ It was found that the degree of crystallinity and electrical properties of ZnO films were affected by UV irradiation. ▶ It was observed that the gas sensing properties were affected by the UV irradiation.