AP01031 Structural and Optical Characteristics of CNTs-Doped ZnO Thin Films Prepared by Spray Pyrolysis

Abstract

This study examines the structural and optical characteristics of zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films infused with 0.05 wt.% carbon nanotubes (CNTs), produced using thermal spray pyrolysis at 400±2°C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) verified a polycrystalline structure with a predominant (101) orientation. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrated an approximate 10% decrease in root mean square surface roughness attributable to the introduction of CNTs, signifying improved surface uniformity and crystallinity. Optical studies indicated alterations in absorbance and transmittance, as well as an expansion of the optical band gap from 3.85 to 3.95 eV. The results indicate enhanced electronic transport and lattice ordering, reinforcing the promise of CNTs-doped ZnO thin films for future optoelectronic and photonic applications.