Structural, optical and microscopic properties of chemically deposited In2Se3 thin films

Solar cell technologically important binary indium selenide thin film has been developed by relatively simple chemical method. The reaction between indium chloride, tartaric acid, hydrazine hydrate and sodium seleno-sulphate in an aqueous alkaline medium at room temperature gives deposits In2Se3 thin film. Various preparative parameters are discussed. The as grown films were found to be transparent, uniform, well adherent, red in color. The prepared films were studied using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, Energy dispersive atomic X-ray diffraction, optical absorption and electrical conductivity properties. The direct optical band gap value E-g for the films was found to be as the order of 2.35 eV at room temperature and having specific electrical conductivity of the order of 10(-2) (Omega cm)(-1) showing n-type conduction mechanism. The utility of the adapted technique is discussed from the point of view of applications considering the optoelectric and structural data obtained.