Ethanol-based solvothermal synthesis of AgSbS2 nanoparticles and their integration into photoresponsive thin films for broadband photodetector applications
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: AgSbS 2 has proven to be an efficient semiconductor for light absorption and has potential applications in solar-related devices. This study reports the synthesis of AgSbS 2 nanoparticles (NPs) using a simple and cost-effective solvothermal method with ethanol as the solvent. Structural analysis of the NPs revealed a cubic structure with a crystallite size of 37 nm. X-ray diffraction patterns showed intense peaks corresponding to (200), (111), and (220) planes, consistent with literature reports. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the phase-purity, with characteristic bands at 189 cm −1 , 250 cm −1, and 448 cm −1 , attributed to vibrational modes of Sb-S and S-Sb-S bonds. The NPs were deposited into thin films using the doctor blade technique, and thermal treatments were optimized to obtain films suitable for optoelectronic applications. The photodetector performance of the AgSbS 2 films was evaluated, achieving a specific detectivity of 3.6 × 10 12 Jones, a responsivity of 51 AW −1 , and a photosensitivity of 680 % under broadband white-light illumination (100 mWcm −2 ). The high photosensitivity is primarily attributed to trap state saturation under high-intensity, and broadband excitation. Complementary measurements at lower light intensities confirmed the intensity dependence of the photoconductive gain. The annealed devices exhibit a dark current of 0.31 nA and a shot noise of 0.010 nA, substantially lower than the non-annealed counterparts. Dynamic photoresponse tests using short 0.5-second pulses demonstrated a rise time of 200 ms and a decay time of 300 ms. The devices also showed excellent operational stability, maintaining 99 % of the initial photocurrent after 1000 on/off cycles. • AgSbS₂ nanoparticles obtained via one-step solvothermal process using ethanol as an eco-friendly solvent. • XRD confirmed a single-phase cubic crystal structure. • AgSbS₂ thin films were fabricated via doctor blading using nanoparticle ink. • The potential application of the AgSbS₂ film as a photodetector was demonstrated.
Source: Journal of Alloys and Compounds
Authors: M.V. Morales-Gallardo, E. Regalado Pérez, X. Mathew, J. Villanueva-Cab, N.R. Mathews
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,660
OpenAlex ID: W4413232747