Dynamic isomers engaged fabrication of copper sulfide rattle-type structures and their optoelectronic properties

Abstract

We demonstrated a new strategy for the preparation of the cubic phase Cu_1.8S rattle-type structure via a dynamic isomers engaged solution route. The isomerization of thiourea into ammonium thiocyanate under solvothermal condition results in the formation of Cu_1.8S and CuSCN in initial products. The transformation of CuSCN into Cu_1.8S causes detachment between the core and shell. Studies show that the homogeneity and size of the rattle-type structure can be controlled by varying the concentration of precursor and PVP. These novel Cu_1.8S rattle-type structures exhibit photoconductivity and may have potential applications in semiconductor optoelectronic devices.