Improving the Photoelectric Characteristics of MoS2 Thin Films by Doping Rare Earth Element Erbium

We investigated the surface morphologies, crystal structures, and optical characteristics of rare earth element erbium (Er)-doped MoS2 (Er: MoS2) thin films fabricated on Si substrates via chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The surface mopography, crystalline structure, light absorption property, and the photoelectronic characteristics of the Er: MoS2 films were studied. The results indicate that doping makes the crystallinity of MoS2 films better than that of the undoped film. Meanwhile, the electron mobility and conductivity of the Er-doped MoS2 films increase about one order of magnitude, and the current-voltage (I-V) and the photoelectric response characteristics of the Er:MoS2/Si heterojunction increase significantly. Moreover, Er-doped MoS2 films exhibit strong light absorption and photoluminescence in the visible light range at room temperature; the intensity is enhanced by about twice that of the undoped film. The results indicate that the doping of MoS2 with Er can significantly improve the photoelectric characteristics and can be used to fabricate highly efficient luminescence and optoelectronic devices.