n-type semiconducting ZnO film with Ag electrode changed into Ag ionic conductor by heating in air. The dominating conduction carrier in such a film was Ag ion in air, and it changed into electron by the introduction of air-containing reducing gas or oxygen free atmosphere. The Ag ionic conductance was high in air and decreased by introduction of air-containing reducing gas or oxygen-free atmosphere. dc polarization and precipitation of silver metal on cathode indicate the Ag conduction depending on atmosphere. The effect of the atmosphere on silver penetration into ZnO film was measured by using SIMS.

Silver Ionic Conduction Depending on Atmosphere in ZnO Film. Fujitsu, S., Takayama, H., Yanagida, H.: Solid State Ionics, 1991, 48[3-4], 309-14