The effects of Ni–Na codoping on structure and properties of ZnO films by pulsed laser deposition

The Ni-doped and Ni–Na codoped ZnO thin films have been prepared on quartz substrates by pulsed laser deposition. The effect of Na on the magnetic and electrical properties of Ni-doped ZnO has been investigated. The dopant Na+ was identified by XPS measurement. The Hall measurement showed weak p-type property in the Ni–Na codoped ZnO thin film. The room-temperature ferromagnetism in the Ni–Na codoped ZnO thin film was obviously enhanced due to the strengthening of the ferromagnetic exchange interaction by the p-type dopant Na+. The possible fabrication of ZnO-based p-type diluted magnetic semiconductors should be of interest for spintronic applications.

► Preparation and characterization of Ni doped and Ni–Na co-doped ZnO thin films. ► Both were prepared by PLD and showed room temperature ferromagnetism. ► Na changes the electrical property and enhances the ferromagnetism.