Research progress in pyrargyrite: synthesis, properties, applications, and future directions

Abstract

The increasing demand for inorganic materials aimed at improving performance in harnessing renewable energy resources has driven research into semiconducting metal sulfides. Metal sulfides are promising materials with multidimensional properties for multifaceted applications. In the present review, a thorough study was carried out on the recent development of Ag₃SbS₃ (ASS) semiconductor materials. While there are several reviews on ternary metal chalcogenides, and this present article focuses on the integrated analysis of ASS. The exceptional structural, physical, chemical, and optical properties of ASS make it novel for scientific research and technological applications. This review provides an overview of the synthesis methodology of ASS, including soft-chemical synthesis and thin-film techniques. Furthermore, analytical instrumental techniques used for its characterization and applications are introduced. This review also accentuates the usage of ASS as a catalyst, photovoltaic absorber, and electrode material. It presents insights into the future perspectives for advancements in ASS. Keeping this in view, research on ASS is expected to focus on the intelligent design of its hybrids, optimization of sustainable and environment-friendly methodologies, and expansion of application domains to realize their full potential. This review will provide guidance to researchers working on inorganic metal sulfides and their composites, especially ASS.