Electrospray deposition and characterization of Cu₂O thin films with ring-shaped 2-D network structure

Cu2O is a p-type semiconductor with a direct band gap of ~2.1 eV, and is expected for solar cell applications etc. Since monovalent Cu is necessary, compositional control is a key step for Cu2O processing. Electrospray is a phenomenon generating ultrafine droplets, when a high voltage is applied to the surface of liquid. In this study, Cu2O thin films with unique ring-shaped 2-D network structure have been prepared by using electrospray pyrolysis method. Copper (II) acetate monohydrate, (CH3COO)2Cu·H2O was used as a raw material, and D(+) glucose was used as a reducing agent for the reaction from Cu2+ to Cu+. At the substrate temperature of 300°C, only Cu2O was obtained as a crystalline phase. Microstructure, sheet resistance and some optical properties will be discussed.