Nanocrystals of CuMSnS4 (M = In or Ga) for solar energy conversion applications

Abstract

Quaternary M^IM^IIIM^IVX^VI₄ (I–III–IV–VI₄) chalcogenides obtained by cross-substitution of binary and ternary compounds remain relatively unexplored. We have for the first-time synthesized wurtzite and defect chalcopyrite phases of CuMSnS₄ (M = In or Ga) in the form of nanocrystals. Optical measurements show that the CuMSnS₄ (M = In or Ga) nanocrystals exhibit strong visible light absorption with band gap values between 1.15 and 1.4 eV, suitable for solar energy conversion applications.