Research and Applications of ZnO Thin Films
A special issue of Crystals (ISSN 2073-4352). This special issue belongs to the section "Inorganic Crystalline Materials".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 24 April 2026 | Viewed by 186
Special Issue Editors
Interests: plasma deposition; solar cells; TCO thin films
Interests: solar thermal energy; concentrating systems; PV systems; fuel cells; semiconductors
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films present themselves as a versatile class of materials that, over time, have captured the attention of researchers due to the balance established between their low cost and the versatility of their synthesis processes. Their optical, electrical, piezoelectric, and chemical properties have been the subject of relevant research efforts reported in the literature. Their unique electro-optical performance, represented by the combination of high optical transparency and low resistivity, together with their wide bandgap and high exciton binding energy, elects ZnO as a promising material to be applied in a wide range of applications.
Over the years, the literature has presented ZnO in research aimed at advancing the frontier of knowledge in consolidated fields such as optoelectronic devices, sensors, photocatalytic systems, and energy harvesting technologies. However, quite remarkably, the properties of this material allow it to follow the emergence of new fields of application, revealing new possibilities of use.
CVD and PVD deposition techniques enable researchers to investigate different morphologies, adjust defect structures, and create customized films to meet specific functionalities. As a result, ZnO thin films are being used in next-generation devices and in Industry 4.0, including flexible electronics, transparent conductors for hybrid photovoltaics, piezoelectric nanogenerators, and photocatalytic surfaces with environmental impact.
In parallel, theoretical and computational research has assumed an increasingly important role in understanding microstructural aspects such as defects in the ZnO crystal lattice, as well as supporting the development of strategies for doping, alloying, and surface engineering.
The aim of this Special Issue is to gather recent advances in the synthesis, characterization, and application of ZnO thin films. We welcome original research articles, reviews, and communications that highlight innovative approaches, whether experimental or theoretical, and that contribute to a broader understanding of ZnO as a key material for future technologies.
I look forward to your contributions to this Special Issue, “Research and Applications of ZnO Thin Films.”
Dr. Jose Cesar Augusto De Queiroz
Dr. António F. da Cunha
Dr. Maxwell Santana Liborio
Guest Editors
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- ZnO thin films
- plasma-assisted deposition
- magnetron sputtering
- defect engineering
- transparent conductive oxides
- UV optoelectronics
- flexible and wearable devices
- energy harvesting
- aerospace and environmental applications
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