Formation and optical properties of CuInTe2 nanoparticles in silicate matrices

The conditions for the formation of CuInTe2 nanoparticles in silicate matrices are studied by means of optical spectroscopy and electron microscopy. The formation of the particles of the semiconductor phase in size from 15 to 30 nm occurs at the stage of cooling of the melt and depends essentially on the composition of the vitreous matrix. The optical absorption in the infrared and visible regions of the spectrum and the effect of additional heat treatment on the formation and optical properties of the nanoparticles are studied. The changes in the optical spectra are attributed to possible changes in the type of the crystal lattice of the nanoparticles formed in the matrix.