Electrodeposition of PbS films from acidic solution

The electrodeposition of PbS films from an acidic solution containing Na2S2O3 and Pb(NO3)2 has been investigated. The cathodic deposition mechanism and the composition of the films deposited were examined by cyclic voltammetry, X-ray diffraction measurement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement. PbS films have been deposited at −0.60 V vs. Ag / AgCl from an acidic solution with a pH value less than 3.0, containing 1 mM Na2S2O3 and 1 mM Pb(NO3)2. In the cathodic electrodeposition of PbS films from an acidic solution, colloidal sulfur played an important role.