Abstract
Quaternary kesterite-type (KS) compounds have attracted worldwide attention from the scientific community as promising materials for solar cells. On the route to optimizing their performance, the effect of stress and strain constitutes a critical factor when it comes to thin film applications. Following a recent theoretical study, we report here joint experimental and computational high-pressure investigations on the KS Ag2ZnSnS4 and wurtz–kesterite (WZ–KS)-type Ag2CdSnS4 compounds. Our results reveal that both materials undergo successive transformations, first into a GeSb-type and then toward a CrN-type modification at ambient temperature. Our theoretical calculations predict a metallic character for all Ag2ZnSnS4 and Ag2CdSnS4 high-pressure phases. In addition, structural disorder is observed in KS Ag2ZnSnS4 upon moderate compression, prior to its KS → GeSb-type transition. Decompression leads to the recovery of a disordered zinc blende-type structure in the latter, whereas Ag2CdSnS4 retains the disordered GeSb-type modification. The similarities and deviations from the archetypical KS Cu2ZnSnS4 are discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
