Structural, morphological and optical properties of Cu–Fe–Sn–S thin films prepared by electrodeposition at fixed applied potential

Abstract Cu–Fe–Sn–S films were obtained on indium tin oxide / glass substrates by a low-cost electrodeposition using an aqueous solution of CuSO4, FeSO4, SnSO4, and Na2S2O3 at room temperature followed by high-temperature sulfurization (500 °C) in argon flow. A range of cathodic potentials have been used for electrodeposition, those being chosen after a preliminary cyclic voltammetry study. The coatings were characterized using X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy and conventional spectroscopy (diffuse reflectance and specular transmission). The results are discussed with respect to the used applied potential.