Characterization of microcrystalline silicon thin films prepared by layer-by-layer technique with a OECVD system

Possible role of hydrogen atoms on the formation of microcrystalline silicon films was schematically investigated using a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition system. A layer-by-layer technique that can alternate deposition of ${\alpha}$-Si thin film and then exposure of H2 plasma was used for this end. The experimental process was extensively carried out under different hydrogen plasma times (t2) at a fixed number of 20 cycles in the deposition. structural properties, such as crystalline volume fractions and grain shapes were analyzed by using a Raman spectroscopy and a scanning electron microscopy. Electrical transports were characterized by the temperature dependence of the dark conductivity that gives rise to the calculation of activation energy (Ea). Optical absorption was measured using an ultra violet spectrophotometer, resulting in the optical energy gap (Eopt). Our experimental results indicate that both of the hydrogen etching and the structural relaxation effects on the film surface seem to be responsible for the growth mechanism of the crystallites in the ${\mu}$c-si films.