Effect of ion irradiation on the properties of zinc stannate films
Ion irradiation, specifically Swift Heavy Ion (SHI) irradiation, serves as a powerful technique for tailoring the physical properties of zinc stannate ( Zn−Sn−Ocap Z n minus cap S n minus cap O𝑍𝑛−𝑆𝑛−𝑂) thin films for applications such as transparent conducting oxides (TCOs) and sensors. By bombarding the film with energetic ions, researchers can induce structural transformations that directly impact its optical transparency and electrical conductivity. 1. Structural and Morphological Modifications Crystalline-to-Amorphous Transformation: Pristine zinc stannate films typically exhibit a polycrystalline nature with phases like Zn2SnO4cap Z n sub 2 cap S n cap O sub 4𝑍𝑛2𝑆𝑛𝑂4 and SnO2cap S n cap O sub 2𝑆𝑛𝑂2. High-energy irradiation (e.g., 120 MeV Ag ions) often leads to amorphization, as the intense energy deposition along ion tracks causes significant lattice disordering. Surface Roughness: Irradiation generally increases the surface roughness of the films. For instance, ro...