The
synthesis of BiAgOCh (Ch = S or Se) compounds has been successfully
achieved via the ion exchange of copper with silver in aqueous solutions,
starting from the copper parent phase. Optical and electrical measurements
of BiAgOCh powders confirm an increase in both the bandgap and the
electrical resistivity, as compared to those of the copper compounds.
The structure of the BiAgOS phase has been clearly examined. X-ray
diffraction synchrotron measurements coupled with advanced high-resolution
transmission electron microscopy analysis evidenced a Ag-deficient
structure, as well as Bi-rich defects, both types of defects being
oppositively charged. Silver atoms are also found in interstial sites,
which explains the two-dimensional ionic conductivity. This structural
study combined with theoretical calculations explains the intrinsic
conductivity behavior of these semiconductors linked to the mutual
compensation of both defect types in the structure and to the increase
in the hole effective mass. This study shows the feasibility of modifying
the optoelectronic properties of the BiMOCh compounds, with the goal
of integrating them in heterojunction solar cells. Moreover, it provides
very precise insight into the complexity of the relationship between
structural defects and optoelectronic properties.
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