Influence of the deposition conditions on the properties of TiO2 -Ge nanocomposite films synthesized by magnetron co-sputtering

A growing need for eco-friendly energy sources have led recently to a frantic search of new compositional systems for photovoltaic applications. The nanocomposite titania-germanium (TiO₂-Ge) systems represent a new viable family of optoelectronic materials. Their structural, optical and electronic properties can be easily tailored by customizing the density and size of Ge dots in the TiO₂ matrix. Early studies on TiO₂-Ge nanocomposites have shown promises for their use as an alternative in photovoltaic applications. In this study we report the TiO₂-Ge films synthesis by reactive magnetron co-sputtering. Their properties were evaluated by compositional (EDS), structural (XRD, FTIR) and optical (UV-Vis) characterizations.