Growth and luminescence of ZnxMg1-xS:: Mn ternary compound crystal films

Solid solutions of crystalline ZnxMg1-xS thin films have been developed in the wide composition x between 0.13 and 1.0 for the use as short-wavelength-light-emitting devices. The crystal structure, optical and luminescent properties and device characteristics of ZnxMg1-xS thin films have been investigated by X-ray diffraction, optical absorption, transmission electron microscope, photoluminescence, and electroluminescence. It was revealed that a zincblende phase ZnxMg1-xS crystal could be formed and the lattice constant was determined and also the optical band gap energy was evaluated. Photo- and electro-luminescent properties of ZnxMg1-xS : Mn have been investigated for the application as an electroluminescent thin film. The blue shift of the Mn emission band with the increase of Mg composition has been determined. Photoluminescent intensity has been also enhanced with the increase of Mg content. The origin of the blue shift of Mn emission in ZnxMg1-xS have been discussed in the framework of crystal field in relation with the composition dependence of the lattice parameter. The blue shift of Mn emission is ascribed to the change of lattice parameter which increase the bond length between Mn2+ ion and ligand S atom with the increase of Mg content in ZnxMg1-xS. Present status of electroluminescent capability has been also described. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 42.70.Hj; 68.55.Nq; 78.55.Et; 78.66.Hf.