Spray Pyrolysis of Non-stoichiometric Zinc Tungstate Thin Films

Zinc tungstate (ZnWO$_{\mathrm{4}})$ has recently shown promise as a photon harvesting material for possible applications in photovoltaic and photocatalytic devices. While substantial work has focused on understanding the properties of stoichiometric ZnWO$_{\mathrm{4}}$, little work has investigated the non-stoichiometric material where the Zn to W ratio is varied from ideal. In the present study, we report on the fabrication of non-stoichiometric zinc tungstate thin films by spray pyrolysis. Results suggest that this technique may be utilized to deposit material with any desired Zn to W ratio. Therefore, the structural, electrical, and optical properties of non-stoichiometric zinc tungstate materials may be characterized and engineered for specific applications.