Unveiling the transformative role of samarium in ZnO: Exploring structural and optical modifications for advanced functional applications

Abstract The current study investigates the optical characteristics of Zn 100− x Sm x O thin films, focusing on the effects of Samarium (Sm) doping on absorbance, transmittance, and nonlinear optical properties. Thin films were synthesized with varying Sm concentrations using a solid-state synthesis method. UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed a gradual decrease in the optical band gap, with the highest value of 3.12 eV for x = 0 and 2.76 eV for x = 10, indicating improved light absorption capabilities with increasing Sm content. The nonlinear absorption coefficient of the Sm ratio shifted from 18.7 to 23 cm/GW for x = 0 and 10, respectively, which is attributed to the introduction of new energy levels within the band gap, facilitating electron transitions. The lattice dielectric constant ( ε 1 ) of the Sm ratio increased from 1.43 to 2.1 for x = 0 and 10, respectively, revealing enhanced polarization. Additionally, the calculated values of the static refractive index were found to increase from 1.13 for x = 0 to 1.33 for x = 10, supporting the observed behavior of ε 1 . These findings provide valuable insights into the tunable optical properties of Zn 100− x Sm x O thin films, highlighting their promising applications in optoelectronic devices. This study opens avenues for the continued refinement of Zn 100− x Sm x O and related materials, enhancing their suitability for a range of technological uses.