Advantageous mechanochemical synthesis of copper(I) selenide semiconductor, characterization, and properties

Abstract

Copper(I) selenide-nanocrystalline semiconductor was synthesized via one-step mechanochemical synthesis after 5 min milling in a planetary ball mill. The kinetics of synthesis was followed by X-ray powder diffraction analysis and specific surface area measurements of milled 2Cu/Se mixtures. The X-ray diffraction confirmed the orthorhombic crystal structure of Cu₂Se with the crystallite size ~25 nm. The surface chemical structure was studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, whereby the binding energy of the Cu 2p and Se 3d signals corresponded to Cu⁺ and Se^2– oxidation states. Transmission electron microscopy revealed agglomerated nanocrystals and confirmed their orthorhombic structure, as well. The optical properties were studied utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The direct bandgap energy 3.7 eV indicated a blue-shift phenomenon due to the quantum size effect. This type of Cu₂Se synthesis can be easily adapted to production dimensions using an industrial vibratory mill. The advantages of mechanochemical synthesis represent the potential for inexpensive, environmentally-friendly, and waste-free manufacturing of Cu₂Se.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Cu₂Se / berzelianite / nanocrystalline semiconductor / mechanochemical synthesis / planetary ball mill

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Higher Education Press