The concepts of translational symmetry and long-range order in atomic arrangement present in single crystals are the pillars of modern solid state physics. However, single crystals are a very special case of the solid state. Long-range order is absent in most materials. Therefore, the future of solid state physics is in developing a theory that would describe the different states of matter including the theory of single crystals as a special case. Besides the academic interest, materials without long-range order are important from the application point of view. Devices based on disordered semiconductors have very wide application: electrophotographic printers and copiers, liquid crystal displays and monitors, optical discs, cheap solar cells and others. However, the peculiarities of disordered semiconductors call for new approaches to the device design as compared to traditional single crystal materials. For example, absence of long range order in structural network allows to apply new methods of properties' control without any doping. Moreover, with a correct approach the so called inherent disadvantages of disordered semiconductors can be used to the advantage of the device. For example, low charge carrier mobility allows to combine high resistivity of material with photosensitivity in visible part of the spectrum and to create electrophotography equipment. The goal of this textbook is to link characteristic features of disordered semiconductors' atomic and electronic structures to the device design process. The textbook begins with a description of general concepts of disordered semiconductors, atomic structure of these materials and the structure of energy bands, defects, as well as their electrical, optical and photovoltaic properties. Since weak sensitivity to impurities is a distinguishing feature of disordered semiconductors, methods of property control and thin film preparation methods are the areas of focus. Finally, applications of disordered semiconductors in various devices are considered.
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