Investigations of the structural, optoelectronic and band alignment properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 prepared by hot-injection method towards low-cost photovoltaic applications

Cu2ZnSnS4 is a promising, versatile and inexpensive quaternary semiconductor with suitable optoelectronic properties for solar energy conversion. In this work, we report the synthesis of CZTS nanocrystals (NCs) using low-cost homemade hot-injection method. Oleylamine was used as both binder stabilizer NCs during growth process. Detailed investigation influence sulphur concentration reaction temperature on structural, stoichiometric, morphological, attributes carried out. The XRD, Raman, TEM measurements confirm formation phase-pure tetragonal kesterite NCs. synthesized exhibit particle sizes in range 15–30 nm display strong optical absorption visible region. nearly optimal chemical composition confirmed by dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. UV–Visible spectroscopy electrochemical predict band gap 1.3–1.6 eV, which very close to optimum values fabrication single junction cells. estimated conduction offset (CBO) valence (VBO) CZTS-3M/CdS heterostructure are predicted 0.11 0.98 respectively, whereas CZTS-225 °C/CdS heterostructure, CBO VBO 0.10 1.0 respectively. small measured at CZTS/CdS interface encouraging characteristics carrier transport deeper understating alignment provides hopeful approach designing higher efficiency more efficient separation