Spray pyrolysed SnS thin films in n and p type: Optimization of deposition process and characterization of samples

•N-type and P-type SnS thin films are fabricated, which are very promising for photovoltaic application.•All the elements are non-toxic, abundant and easily available.•Possibility of tuning the polarity of the developed SnS films are investigated.•Enhancement in conductivity with persistence of n-type polarity is attained in doped SnS.•Succeeded in tailoring the conductivity of SnS without much affecting the structural or optical properties.

Thin films of copper doped and undoped SnS are prepared with variation in the concentration of precursor solvent HCl. In undoped SnS, change in the polarity from p type to n type is achieved with reduction of HCl concentration, whereas in doped SnS enhancement of conductivity with persistence of n-type polarity is attained. Structural characterization reveals orthorhombic structure with preferential orientation along (111) plane. Measurement of band gap, electrical, optical parameters and surface nature of the samples are done. Raman analysis and binding energy calculation (from X-ray photoelectron spectra) confirm formation of SnS.