Abstract

Electrodeposition of ZnS- ZnO2 film mixtures onto monocrystalline n-InP substrates through the simultaneous electroreduction of dioxygen and sulfur in the presence of zinc ions in dimethyl sulfoxide solution is reported. The films were thick, compact, transparent, and with a flat morphology. The mixture of phases was confirmed by the analysis of the reflection high-energy electron diffraction patterns. The optical absorption gave an Eg value of 3.47 eV, which agrees with the presence of ZnO in the mixture. The properties of the films suggest it might be a good alternative to replace the CdS window layer in Cu(In,Ga) Se2 -based photovoltaic devices. © 2007 The Electrochemical Society.