Synthesis of spindle-like kesterite Cu₂ZnSnS₄ nanoparticles using thiorea as sulfur source

Abstract

In this study, spindle-like kesterite Cu₂ZnSnS₄ (CZTS) nanoparticles were synthesized by hot-injection method using thiorea as sulfur source. The samples were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and UV–vis spectroscopy. TEM and high resolution TEM images showed the as-prepared nanoparticles to be single-crystalline and have a uniformly spindle-like shape with a narrow diameter distribution. In the meantime, the role of thiorea played in the formation of spindle-like shape was discussed. UV–vis absorption spectra revealed a strong absorption in the visible light region with a direct band gap of 1.52 eV which was optimal for solar cell materials.