Synthesis and characterization of spray pyrolysed MgIn2O4 spinel thin films for novel applications

A novel ternary oxide compound magnesium indate film, MgIn2O4 (MIO), manifesting high transparency and conductivity has been prepared by spray pyrolysis technique. Stoichiometrically mixed precursors were thermally sprayed onto glass substrates and decomposed at 400 and 450 °C and the growth parameters were studied in detail. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) studies have been conducted to confirm the formation of stoichiometric films. The dc electrical conductivity of these films was measured in the temperature range between 30 and 100 °C by four-probe technique. Measurement of Hall coefficient showed n-type electrical conduction and high-carrier concentration. Optical properties were studied in the wavelength range 280-1500 nm and surface morphology of the MIO films were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and, atomic force microscopy (AFM).