Native surface oxidation phenomena of DC-Sputtered molybdenum thin film in tropical environment

• Published in: Materials Letters
• Main Author: Putthisigamany Y.; Sajedur Rahman K.; Mohd Izhar Sapeli M.; Shafian S.; Syafiq U.; Sukor Su'ait M.; Ahmad Ludin N.; Adib Ibrahim M.; Chelvanathan P.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V. 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85196364672&doi=10.1016%2fj.matlet.2024.136787&partnerID=40&md5=64c69655f1b5bf05b61361544334705e

Molybdenum (Mo) is a versatile refractory metal that has been widely used as back contact in thin film photovoltaic cells. However, Mo tends to react with oxygen in ambient environment which influences its original properties. In this study, Mo thin films were stored in different environments (in vacuum desiccator and open air) for 8760 h. Subsequently, these films were characterized and analyzed by Grazing Incidence X-Ray Diffractometer (GIXRD), Raman spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX), Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy (C-AFM), and Hall Effect measurement system. It was found that Mo thin film kept in open air at room temperature undergoes surface oxidation which results in random growth of nanostructured MoOx. Formation of these observed oxide compounds on the surface is correlated with decrement in the electrical conductivity mainly through lower carrier mobility. Preliminary results highlighted from this study can serve as general guideline for handling, storage and transportation requirements forMo thin film in tropical environment. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.