Influence of the deposition potential on the structure and composition of the CdTe films electrodeposited on stainless steel substrates

The dependence of the chemical composition and grain growth on the deposition potential of CdTe films on stainless steel substrates has been investigated. The preliminary analysis using XRD, EPMA and AUGER techniques show that the preferential orientation of the CdTe grains and the percentage composition of the film depend on the potential applied between the reference electrode and the stainless steel substrate. It is possible to control the composition of the electrodeposited CdTe films by properly adjusting the deposition potential. AUGER analysis revealed the presence of oxygen throughout the thickness of the film.