Strategic tuning of precursor's concentration for the synthesis of Sb<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub> thin films with enlarged nanocrystals and <i>hk</i>1-oriented growth, leading to superior optical properties.

Abstract

Antimony trisulfide (Sb₂S₃) has acquired significant attention due to its non-toxic nature, durability, abundance, and superior opto-electronic properties, making it a promising candidate for various applications in optoelectronics and photovoltaics. It is important to focus on achieving the desired crystal morphology and preferred growth (<i>hk</i>1-oriented), as these can potentially result in superior optical properties. Moreover, surface morphology and stoichiometric ratio of the fabricated films also play a significant role. Even after conducting intensive research to address these factors, there remains immense research scope to enhance these properties. In this study, we present a strategically optimized precursor concentration for solution-based synthesis of Sb₂S₃ thin films with large, compact, homogeneous nanocrystals, <i>hk</i>1-oriented preferential growth and superior optical properties, through a simple, cost-effective spin coating method. By varying the concentration of CS₂ (source of sulphur), an enhanced precursor solution was synthesized, which yielded the desirable crystal dimensions, <i>hk</i>1-oriented growth and optical properties. In this research work, we demonstrate the results of varying the concentration of CS₂ (from 1.5 ml to 3 ml with steps of 0.5 ml) and the effect it has on the overall structural and optical properties. The synthesized materials were characterized comprehensively using High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM), Bright-Field Transmission Electron Microscopy (BF-TEM), Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and Variable Angle Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (VASE). Our experimental findings of BF-TEM, HR-TEM, SAED, and VASE conclude that the precursor solution consisting of 2.5 ml of CS₂ was able to generate enhanced nanocrystals, <i>hk</i>1-oriented growth and superior optical properties. The other measurements taken using the characterizing techniques agreed well with the findings of BF-TEM, HR-TEM, SAED, and VASE.