Growth characteristics and effect of thickness on optical properties of iron copper sulphide (FeS²CuS³) thin films

Abstract

Thin films of iron copper sulphide (FeS²CuS³) were produced by chemical bath deposition technique on glass substrate. The optical and electrical properties of the films were investigated using ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer and Fourier transforms infrared spectrometer. The energy band gap of the film ranged between 1.80 - 2.10 eV, which fell within the band gaps of Cu²S and FeS² thin films. The thickness and electrical conductivity of the films ranged between 3.96 - 4.18 μm and 3.57 x 10² - 4.04 x 10² W^-1m^-1 respectively. There was a corresponding decrease in thickness with electrical conductivity. The optical transmittance of the films decreased with increased film thickness. Since the average transmittance of film was greater than 45 % in the ultraviolet-near infrared regions and exhibited poor transmittance in the ultraviolet regions, the thin films of FeS²CuS³ could be used for solar cell fabrication and as effective coatings for poultry houses.

Journal of Applied Science and Technology Vol. 10(1&2) 2005: 53-59