Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) is a relatively non-toxic semiconductor made out of earth-abundant elements. CZTS has a direct band-gap of ~1.5 eV, so it is able to absorb most of the visible region of the solar spectrum. This makes it an interesting candidate for photocatalysis. The advantages of using semiconductor nanorods in photocatalysis include a high surface area and lower electron-hole recombination rates. Depositing metals, like gold, on the surface of CZTS nanorods has been shown to increase the photocatalytic capacity by slowing recombination rates and increasing selectivity in products. Photochemical as well as thermal pathways were studied to deposit Au onto the CZTS nanorods. These heterostructures were then used to reduce methylene blue to test the photocatalytic capabilities of the material. The results of these experiments are presented in this poster.

Synthesis of metal deposited CZTS nanostructures for use in catalysis

248th National Meeting (2014)

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