Effect of Diode Laser Irradiation on the Structural and Optical Properties of Spin-Coated Cobalt Oxide Thin Films

Abstract

Cobalt oxide (Co₃O₄) films were successfully prepared using the spin-coating technique. The structural properties were confirmed through X-ray diffraction analysis. These thin films underwent irradiation using three types of diode lasers which emitted light in three distinct wavelength ranges; namely red, green, and blue. From the results of the UV-visible spectroscopy, it was found that there was significant improvement in the absorbance properties of the films, particularly in the wavelength range of 350-500 nm. The results showed that the film exposed to the red laser had the highest enhancement. It was noted that the optical conductivity was improved after irradiation, while the light dependent resistor (LDR) decreased after laser irradiation. The results showed that the spin-coated Co₃O₄ thin film can be modified through irradiation from a diode laser, making it a suitable candidate for use in optoelectronics.