Synthesis of metastable wurtzite CuInS2 nanocrystals and films from aqueous solution

Abstract

For the first time, metastable wurtzite CuInS₂ nanocrystals and films were successfully synthesized from aqueous solution under atmospheric conditions. The CuInS₂ nanocrystals were prepared by stirring and reflux of a metal salt and sodium sulfide in aqueous solution containing thioglycolic acid as a stabilizer. The good absorption in the visible light region may find interesting application in solar cells. The I–V curve indicated that the wurtzite CuInS₂ NCs favored the generation of photoinduced carrier and electronic transmission. The proposed synthesis strategy may be used as a general process for the synthesis of hydrophilic chalcogenide semiconductor NCs and is scalable for commercial production with minimal environmental impact.