Observation of room temperature ferromagnetism in ZnTe:Cr films grown onto glass substrate by thermal evaporation method

Abstract

ZnTe and ZnTe:Cr films were prepared onto glass substrates using thermal evaporation method. Structural properties of the prepared samples were analyzed using X-ray diffractometer, and the presence of ZnCrTe phase was identified along with poor crystallinity. Composition analysis was done using XPS and the Cr content in the film was found to be 0.05 atomic percent. Transmittance spectra were recorded using UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The valence state of Cr in ZnTe:Cr film is determined to be +2 using electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy. Magnetic moment data as a function of magnetic field were recorded using Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometer at temperatures 5, 77 and 300 K. The results showed minority ferromagnetic behavior even at room temperature. Magnetic domains were observed using Magnetic Force Microscopy and the average value of domain size is 3.7 nm. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.