Properties of SnS thin films grown by physical vapour deposition

Thin films of tin sulfide (SnS) were prepared by thermal evaporation technique on glass substrates and on n-type Si substrate and their physical properties were studied. The phase of the obtained thin films before and after thermal treatment was confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectra. Optical transmission and reflection spectra were measured in the wavelength range 300-1800 nm, and the data were used to determine the direct and indirect optical band gaps. Four-point measurements have revealed that SnS thin film exhibits p-type conduction. Current-voltage characteristics of the SnS/ n-Si structures demonstrate strong photosensitivity and photovoltaic effect. However, in order to be able to evaluate the potential applicability of this heterojunction for photovoltaic or electronic devices, further study and technological optimization has to be conducted.