Switching Phenomena in Thin Films of Lead Phthalocyanine

Abstract Further experiments are reported relating to the reported switching phenomenon in lead phthalocyanine thin films including cyclic voltammetry, of both the oxidation and reduction of the thin films on ITO glass, and the influence of vapours on the asymmetry of the current-voltage relationship. The possible mechanisms are reviewed and a mechanism proposed involving a field induced electron transfer to an electron acceptor such as oxygen. The switching may be localised leading ultimately to hot spots and breakdown.