Photocurrent in PZT/TiOx composite film prepared via self-assembly of perovskite matrix and ALD of titania

• Published in: Materials chemistry and physics 2025-02, Vol.332, p.130224, Article 130224
• Main Authors: Seregin, D.S., Delimova, L.A., Yakuschev, V.A., Vishnevskiy, A.S., Atanova, A.V., Khmelenin, D.N., Zhigalina, O.M., Gushchina, E.V., Ankudinov, A.V., Sigov, A.S., Vorotilov, K.A.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Deposition in high aspect ratio structures; Evaporation-induced self-assembly; Ferroelectric composite film; Photovoltaic current; Polarization
• ISSN: 0254-0584
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2024.130224

A novel approach for the preparation of ferroelectric composite films has been successfully developed by combining sol–gel evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) of porous lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films with atomic layer deposition (ALD) of titania. The EISA process, which utilizes a Brij-type surfactant, facilitates the formation of large columnar perovskite grains with narrow (∼20 nm) interconnected pores. ALD, employing the thermal reaction of titanium isopropoxide with water, ensures uniform titania growth within the pores throughout the film thickness, as demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy and ellipsometric porosimetry. The resulting PZT-TiOx composite films exhibit a pronounced photovoltaic current under visible light illumination, attributed to electron excitation from the valence band to Ti3+ states, followed by movement via a hopping conduction mechanism. The photocurrent value varies with the direction of polarization. This behavior presents a potential method for controlling photoconductivity through polarization, with possible applications in electronic and photonic devices. [Display omitted] •PZT/TiOx composite films were obtained via self-assembly and atomic layer deposition.•Composite films generate a photovoltaic current when exposed to visible light.•The photocurrent can be controlled by polarization in ferroelectric material.•Composite films can be used in electronics, including memory cells.