Co-doped ZnS nanostructure thin films: Synthesis and properties

Pure ZnS and Co-doped ZnS thin films were grown using Chemical Spray Pyrolysis (CSP)Technique, and the concentration of the Co doping level (1% and 3%). The hexagonal crystal structure was present in all of the films as shown by X-ray diffraction (XRD) structure of all films. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) revealed that film surface was homogeneous. Optical properties of undoped ZnS and the optical bandgap energy (Eg) of Co doped indicated a reduction with Co doping level (1% and 3%). The root of ferromagnetic order at low temperatures (5 K and 100 K) could be traced back to point defects like, zinc interstitials, sulfide vacancies, and zinc vacancies as well as the grain-boundary impact.