Synthesis of Earth-Abundant Chalcogenide Nanoparticlesy Chalcogenide Nanoparticles
- Summary
- Researchers at Purdue University have developed an innovative method that is related to the synthesis of multinary chalcogenide nanoparticles comprising of Cu, Zn, Sn, S, and Se. The main compound created is Cu2ZnSn(SySe1-y)4, whereby Cu/(Zn+Sn) can be substantially less than 1, but greater than 0.5; Zn/Sn can be greater than, equal to, or less than 1; and y can be between 0 and 1. This method would allow for improved thin films for photovoltaic applications because of tin and zinc's natural abundance in the earth's crust and the relatively low toxicity.
- Technology Benefits
- Cost-effectiveComparable efficiency High abundance and low toxicity of inputs
- Technology Application
- Green TechnologyPhotovoltaic Technologies
- Detailed Technology Description
- Rakesh AgrawalPurdue Chemical EngineeringSolar Energy Research GroupLiquid Fuels Research GroupSeparations Research Group
- Countries
- United States
- Application No.
- 9,093,190
- *Abstract
-
- *Background
- Among the various semiconductor nanomaterials investigated for photovoltaic applications, the most promising candidate for low cost solar cells is the I-III-VI2 family of chalcopyrite nanocrystals. However, due to the limited supply and ever increasing price of rare metals, such as indium and gallium, there is a need to find alternative materials with high abundance and low cost.
- *IP Issue Date
- Jul 28, 2015
- *IP Type
- Utility
- *Stage of Development
- Process Validation in Lab
- *Web Links
- Purdue Office of Technology CommercializationPurdueInnovation and EntrepreneurshipRakesh AgrawalPurdue Chemical EngineeringSolar Energy Research GroupLiquid Fuels Research GroupSeparations Research Group
- Country/Region
- USA
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