PbS nanodots for ultraviolet radiation dosimetry

Abstract

Lead sulfide (PbS) nanodots in Zirconia (ZrO2) thin film matrix (ZrO2:PbS films) were investigated for UV radiation dosimetry purposes. Samples were fabricated using sol-gel technique. ZrO2:PbS films were irradiated with UV light with wavelengths 250 - 400 nm during 50 minutes. Photoelectron emission spectra of ZrO2:PbS films were recorded and band structure for nonradiated and UV irradiated samples was calculated. It was found that quantity of localized states decreased after UV irradiation while density of localized states was dependent on concentration of PbS nanodots. The observed changes in band structure of ZrO2:PbS films after UV irradiation suggest that the films may be considered as an effective material for UV radiation dosimetry, PbS nanodots being the UV sensitive substance of such a dosimeter. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.