Crystallization kinetics of Si20Te80-xBix (0 ≤ x ≤ 3) chalcogenide glasses

In this report, we investigate the crystallization kinetics of Si20Te80-xBi(0 <= x <= 3) chalcogenide glassy systems using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) technique. Systematic studies are carried out in order to understand the variation of thermal parameters such as glass transition temperature (T-g), onset crystallization temperature (T-c) and peak crystallization temperature (T-p) as a function of composition. Activation energy for glass transition (E-g) and crystallization (E-c) has been calculated based on the relevant statistical methods. Furthermore, thermal parameters such as change in specific heat (Delta C-p), fragility index (F), thermal stability (Delta T) & (S), enthalpy (Delta H-c), entropy (Delta S) are deduced to interpret distinct material behaviour as a function of composition. Structural evaluation like thermal devitrification studies elucidate the restricted glass formability of the studied glass system. Conclusively, a relationship has been established between the obtained thermal parameters and electrical switching characteristics.