Solid solutions of crystalline ZnxMg1-xS thin films have been developed in
the wide composition x between 0.13 and 1.0 for the use as short-wavelength
-light-emitting devices. The crystal structure, optical and luminescent pro
perties and device characteristics of ZnxMg1-xS thin films have been invest
igated by X-ray diffraction, optical absorption, transmission electron micr
oscope, photoluminescence, and electroluminescence. It was revealed that a
zincblende phase ZnxMg1-xS crystal could be formed and the lattice constant
was determined and also the optical band gap energy was evaluated. Photo-
and electro-luminescent properties of ZnxMg1-xS : Mn have been investigated
for the application as an electroluminescent thin film. The blue shift of
the Mn emission band with the increase of Mg composition has been determine
d. Photoluminescent intensity has been also enhanced with the increase of M
g content. The origin of the blue shift of Mn emission in ZnxMg1-xS have be
en discussed in the framework of crystal field in relation with the composi
tion dependence of the lattice parameter. The blue shift of Mn emission is
ascribed to the change of lattice parameter which increase the bond length
between Mn2+ ion and ligand S atom with the increase of Mg content in ZnxMg
1-xS. Present status of electroluminescent capability has been also describ
ed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved. PACS: 42.70.Hj; 68.
55.Nq; 78.55.Et; 78.66.Hf.