Chalcogenides: Solid‐State Chemistry

Abstract

Binary, ternary, and quaternary metal chalcogenides are considered in this article. The compound stoichiometries in each family are first analyzed with the aid of compositional diagrams. Then, the various synthetic approaches are reviewed followed by a discussion of the structural attributes. The advances with computational study of electronic band structures are next reviewed followed by a discussion of the optical and optoelectronic properties. Mixed compounds, doping, and solid solutions are next discussed followed with a summary and perspectives for future study. While metal chalcogenides are important from a wide array of practical applications (energy conversion/storage, microelectronics, lubrication, etc.), the approach adopted in this review article focuses on material properties that enable these applications.

Combining Electrosynthesis with Thermolysis: A Safe/Scalable Route to Multinary Oxide Semiconductor Films

“…Examples of this paradigm may be found in the ternary and quaternary metal chalcogenide compositions (e. g., CuInSe 2 , CuInGaSe 2 ) that have been developed for photovoltaic solar cell applications. [1] Similarly, the CuÀ VÀ O family of ternary compounds have shown enhanced stability (relative to the copper oxide parent) and have also furnished unique opportunities for developing composition-property relationships in a photoelectrochemical (PEC) solar fuels context. [2][3][4][5][6] In general, multinary compound semiconductors are important in a variety of practical device applications beyond those identified above.…”

“…This approach was initially developed for multinary chalcogenide films. [1] For example, for the synthesis of CuInX 2 (X = S, Se), a copper-indium alloy film is first electrosynthesized. [1] In the subsequent, thermolysis step, this film is reacted with H 2 X gas for ultimate conversion to CuInX 2 .…”

“…[1] For example, for the synthesis of CuInX 2 (X = S, Se), a copper-indium alloy film is first electrosynthesized. [1] In the subsequent, thermolysis step, this film is reacted with H 2 X gas for ultimate conversion to CuInX 2 . [1] However, H 2 X is noxious and therefore, poses severe safety/ scalability issues.…”

“…[1] In the subsequent, thermolysis step, this film is reacted with H 2 X gas for ultimate conversion to CuInX 2 . [1] However, H 2 X is noxious and therefore, poses severe safety/ scalability issues. On the other hand, the hybrid, "electrothermodeposition" (ETD) variant, is shown herein to be particularly safe and scalable in the case of multinary oxide semiconductors where the thermolysis step only involves an inert and non-toxic gas such as dioxygen (O 2 ).…”

Electrosynthesis of CdS/MoS2 Using Electrodeposited MoSx: A Combined Voltammetry–Electrochemical Quartz Crystal Nanogravimetry Study

“…Transition metal dichalcogenides are currently of much interest as earth abundant and cost-effective electrocatalyst alternatives to platinum group metals for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). , For example, molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) has been extensively studied with this application in perspective . Amorphous molybdenum sulfide (MoS x ) has also emerged as an efficient HER electrocatalyst. − The stoichiometry and sulfur content of MoS x films (which can be controlled by the precursor, MoS 4 2– or Mo 2 S 12 2– ) have been shown to influence the HER electrocatalytic activity .…”