Solution-based synthesis of transition metal phosphides has proven effective for formation of nanocrystals with applications ranging from catalysis to lithium ion batteries. This contribution focuses on the synthesis of size tunable Cu3P and its ability to be used as a precursor for Cu3PS4 � a potential earth abundant solar absorption material. A novel synthesis pathway for each material is presented and analyzed in succession. Cu3P is obtained by reacting copper nanocrystals with liberated phosphorus from a solution of phosphorus pentasulfide (P2S5) in TOP via a hot injection technique at temperatures between 200 oC and 300 oC. This Cu3P is thermally stable at temperatures upwards of 500 oC. For the first time, Cu3P nanocrystals are used as a precursor to derive Cu3PS4 in the presence of decomposing thiourea.  Cu3PS4 is observed to be a p-type semiconductor, have an experimentally determined bandgap of 2.36 eV, and crystallizes orthorhombically in a wurtzite superstructure. This contribution reports and characterizes the unique synthesis of Cu3P and the subsequent conditions necessary for conversion to Cu3PS4 with respect to their alternative energy applications.

Solution based synthesis of Cu?3?PS?4? from Cu?3?P for sustainable alternative energy applications

246th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.