Cu<sub>2</sub>S Nanocrystals and Their Superlattices

We report the successful synthesis of monodispersed Cu<sub>2</sub>S nanocrystals and the subsequent formation of highly ordered nanocrystal superlattices. The synthesis is performed under ambient air conditions using simple experimental setups, making the process both accessible and scal...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Samuel Fuentes, Ryan Hart, Juan Ramirez, Aditi Mulgaonkar, Rainie Luo, Brady Killham, Sashi Debnath, Yunfeng Wang, Xiankai Sun, Jiechao Jiang, Yaowu Hao
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-04-01
Series:Crystals
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4352/15/5/387
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Summary:We report the successful synthesis of monodispersed Cu<sub>2</sub>S nanocrystals and the subsequent formation of highly ordered nanocrystal superlattices. The synthesis is performed under ambient air conditions using simple experimental setups, making the process both accessible and scalable. By systematically tuning the reaction temperature and duration, we demonstrate precise control over the nanocrystal size, which is crucial in achieving uniformity and monodispersity. Furthermore, we uncover a previously unidentified nanocrystal growth mechanism that plays a key role in producing highly monodisperse Cu<sub>2</sub>S nanocrystals. This insight into the growth process enhances our fundamental understanding of nanocrystal formation and could be extended to the synthesis of other semiconductor nanomaterials. The self-assembly of these nanocrystals into superlattices is carefully examined using electron diffraction techniques, revealing the presence of pseudo-crystalline structures. The ordered arrangement of nanocrystals within these superlattices suggests strong interparticle interactions and opens up new possibilities to tailor their collective optical, electronic, and mechanical properties for potential applications in optoelectronics, nanomedicine, and energy storage.
ISSN:2073-4352