Synthesis, characterization, and properties of nanocrystalline Cu2SnS3

The preparation of nanocrystalline Cu2SnS3 at synthetic conditions of low temperature (<180 degrees C) was first reported. Nanocrystalline Cu2SnS3 was directly synthesized from the reaction of CuCl2. 2H(2)O with elemental tin and sulfur through a solvothermal process in ethylenediamine at 140-180 degrees C for 15 h. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS) were used to characterize the products. The mechanism of the formation of the Cu2SnS3 nanocrystals in the solvothermal process was proposed. The UV-vis absorption spectroscopy and the electric conductivity of products were also studied. (C) 2000 Academic Press.