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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 March 2011
We study changes in the optical constants of a-Si:H films caused by the thermal annealing involved in solid phase crystallization. The aim is to examine the growth mechanism, since changes in refractive index are most probably caused by a change in the network structure. The refractive index change was studied from interference fringes in transmitted light at normal incidence, and shows differing dependence on temperature in different thermal ranges. DSC measurement was also performed to examine changes in the network structure with temperature. Changes in optical and thermal properties induced by an increase of temperature reveal frequent network changes of a-Si:H below 470°C and of a-Si in the range 470 to 570°C. We also found crystallization at about 570°C, and grain growth above the crystallization temperature. Knowledge of network changes in a-Si film allows orientation control by an external seed.