Energy Dispersive X-ray Diffraction Studies Research Articles

3D Nanoarchitecture of Polyaniline-MoS2 Hybrid Material for Hg(II) Adsorption Properties.

We report the facile hydrothermal synthesis of polyaniline (PANI)-modified molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets to fabricate a novel organic–inorganic hybrid material. The prepared 3D nanomaterial was characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies. The results indicate the successful synthesis of PANI–MoS2 hybrid material. The PANI–MoS2 was used to study the extraction and preconcentration of trace mercury ions. The experimental conditions were optimized systematically, and the data shows a good Hg(II) adsorption capacity of 240.0 mg g−1 of material. The adsorption of Hg(II) on PANI–MoS2 hybrid material may be attributed to the selective complexation between the–S ion of PANI–MoS2 with Hg(II). The proposed method shows a high preconcentration limit of 0.31 µg L−1 with a preconcentration factor of 640. The lowest trace Hg(II) concentration, which was quantitatively analyzed by the proposed method, was 0.03 µg L−1. The standard reference material was analyzed to determine the concentration of Hg(II) to validate the proposed methodology. Good agreement between the certified and observed values indicates the applicability of the developed method for Hg(II) analysis in real samples. The study suggests that the PANI–MoS2 hybrid material can be used for trace Hg(II) analyses for environmental water monitoring.

A selective approach towards synthesis of poly (3‑bromo thiophene)/graphene quantum dot composites via in-situ and ex-situ routes: Application in light emission and photocurrent generation

This article elucidates fabrication of a smart composite from poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) and graphene quantum dot (GQD) through facile in-situ and ex-situ routes and demonstrates their photo-physical and photo-electrochemical behaviors. 3-bromothiophene was first polymerized to poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) in presence of graphene oxide (GO) and then converted into PTBr/GQD composite through solvo-thermal route in the in-situ process while in the ex-situ process, both graphene oxide (GO) and poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) were first combined ex-situ and then solvo-thermally treated to fabricate the PTBr/GQD composite. Spectroscopic findings indicate safe formation of the composites however, alteration in both precursor and fabrication route had simultaneously created a demonstrable difference in interfacial interaction between poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) and graphene quantum dot (GQD) which eventually impacted their application behavior. Microscopy, Energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) mapping and X-ray diffraction study mutually elucidated the formation of uniformly thin, fibrillar (8 nm) over-growth of amorphous poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) over graphene quantum dot (GQD) in the ex-situ composite while in the in-situ composite a comparatively non-uniform and thicker over-growth (12 nm) of poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) over graphene quantum dot (GQD) was noticed. Both the composites had shown quenched photoemission but exhibited a much improved photocurrent generation than the pristine components. However, relatively high concentration of poly (3-bromothiophene) (PTBr) coupled with its stronger interaction with graphene quantum dot (GQD) in the in-situ composite had produced a stronger red shift and much higher photocurrent efficiency than that in the ex-situ sample.

Catalytic performance of the biosynthesized AgNps from Bistorta amplexicaule: antifungal, bactericidal, and reduction of carcinogenic 4-nitrophenol

AbstractThis study was focused to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNps) from the aqueous extract ofBistorta amplexicauleand to evaluate their antimicrobial, antifungal, and 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) degradation potential. The AgNps fromB. amplexicaulewere characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies. The biological activity of the AgNps was checked against the three bacterial and two fungal strains. The inhibition activities of the synthesized nanoparticles on pathogenic bacteria and fungi were equally studied using the colony-forming unit method. The AgNps synthesized showed excellent bactericidal and fungicidal activities against pathogenicEscherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA),Candida albicans, andCandida tropicalis. The removal of nitrophenols is one of the most demanding tasks, due to their injurious impact on the health of the living organisms. The AgNps showed superior performance compared with the pure plant extract. The AgNps also displayed efficient catalytic ability in reducing toxic 4-NP into harmless 4-aminophenol in the presence of NaBH4solution. Hence, the synthesized AgNps can be effectively used against bacterial and fungal infections and in the decontamination of 4-NP polluted water.

Thermal expansion of nano–boron carbide under constant DC electric field: An in situ energy dispersive X-ray diffraction study using a synchrotron probe

Abstract

Native Osseous CaP Biomineral Coating on a Biomimetic Multi-Spiked Connecting Scaffold Prototype for Cementless Resurfacing Arthroplasty Achieved by Combined Electrochemical Deposition.

The multi-spiked connecting scaffold (MSC-Scaffold) prototype with spikes mimicking the interdigitations of articular subchondral bone is an essential innovation in surgically initiated fixation of resurfacing arthroplasty (RA) endoprosthesis components. This paper aimed to present a determination of the suitable range of conditions for the calcium phosphate (CaP) potentiostatic electrochemical deposition (ECDV=const) on the MSC-Scaffold prototype spikes to achieve a biomineral coating with a native Ca/P ratio. The CaP ECDV=const process on the MSC-Scaffold Ti4Al6V pre-prototypes was investigated for potential VECDfrom −9 to −3 V, and followed by 48 h immersion in a simulated body fluid. An acid–alkaline pretreatment (AAT) was applied for a portion of the pre-prototypes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies of deposited coatings together with coatings weight measurements were performed. Themost suitable VECD range, from −5.25 to −4.75 V, was determined as the native biomineral Ca/P ratio of coatings was achieved. AAT increases the weight of deposited coatings (44% for VECD = −5.25 V, 9% for VECD = −5.00 V and 15% for VECD = −4.75 V) and the coverage degree of the lateral spike surfaces (40% for VECD = −5.25 V, 14% for VECD = −5.00 V and 100% for VECD = −4.75 V). XRD confirmed that the multiphasic CaP coating containing crystalline octacalcium phosphate is produced on the lateral surface of the spikes of the MSC-Scaffold. ECDV=const preceded by AAT prevents micro-cracks on the bone-contacting surfaces of the MSC-Scaffold prototype, increases its spikes’ lateral surface coverage, and results in the best modification effect at VECD = −5.00 V. To conclude, the biomimetic MSC-Scaffold prototype with desired biomineral coating of native Ca/P ratio was obtained for cementless RA endoprostheses.

Effect of nano-TiO2 on the properties of cementitious composites under different exposure environments

This article presents the effect of 1%, 3% and 5% content of nano-TiO2 (NT) on the fresh, hardened, microstructural and corrosion resistance properties of cementitious composites under different exposure environments (tap water, saline water and acidic solution). Various investigations such as setting time, compressive strength, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive x-ray (EDX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and potentiodynamic polarization studies were carried out. The setting time test confirmed that the NT acts as an accelerator. The 28 days-compressive strength of mortar increased with the addition of NT. The results of SEM and XRD analyses indicate that NT improved the microstructure and increased the amounts of desirable hydration products. The 360 days-compressive strengths of NT admixed mortar exposed under tap water, saline water and acidic solution were found to be higher than control mortar. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of NT was observed to be increasing with the increase in the dosage, in all the exposure environments.

Electrodeposition of Transition Metal Composites on Mild Steel: Structural and Wear Behaviour

Wear characteristics of the transition metal composite (TMC) coated mild steel are investigated. TMC coatings were performed using electrodeposition technique on mild steel. Different concentrations of transition metals were subjected to prepare the TMC’s and studied. The structural and the micro structural studies of the composites coatings were studied through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The elemental compositions of coated composites were evaluated using Energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDS) studies. Both the structural and micro structural characterizations confirmed the formation of composite coatings. Further, it is evident from the EDS analyses that TMC’s are coated with the desired concentrations. In order to understand the wear resistance of coated mild steel, the specimen were subjected to load on pin-on-disc type wear tester. The effects of concentration of composite and thickness of the coating on wear resistance are discussed. The coating results in improving the wear resistance and hardness of the specimen

Structure and Deformation Behavior of Ti-SiC Composites Made by Mechanical Alloying and Spark Plasma Sintering.

Combining high energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering is one of the most promising technologies in materials science. The mechanical alloying process enables the production of nanostructured composite powders that can be successfully spark plasma sintered in a very short time, while preserving the nanostructure and enhancing the mechanical properties of the composite. Composites with MAX phases are among the most promising materials. In this study, Ti/SiC composite powder was produced by high energy ball milling and then consolidated by spark plasma sintering. During both processes, Ti3SiC2, TiC and Ti5Si3 phases were formed. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction study showed that the phase composition of the spark plasma sintered composites consists mainly of Ti3SiC2 and a mixture of TiC and Ti5Si3 phases which have a different indentation size effect. The influence of the sintering temperature on the Ti-SiC composite structure and properties is defined. The effect of the Ti3SiC2 MAX phase grain growth was found at a sintering temperature of 1400–1450 °C. The indentation size effect at the nanoscale for Ti3SiC2, TiC+Ti5Si3 and SiC-Ti phases is analyzed on the basis of the strain gradient plasticity theory and the equation constants were defined.

Effect of Mg on Microstructure and Growth Kinetics of Zn-22.3Al-1.1Si Coating

The effects of Mg on the microstructure and growth kinetics of the hot-dip Zn-22.3Al-1.1Si-x Mg (x = 0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6) coatings were investigated in detail. Scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies revealed the presence of η-Zn, α-Al, Zn/Al eutectoid, (Si), Al/Si eutectic, and Zn/Al/Mg2Zn11 ternary eutectic on the top surface of these Mg-containing coatings. Especially, a small amount of MgZn2 phase appears in top surface of Zn-22.3Al-1.1Si-0.6Mg coating. Five phases are found in the alloy layers, i e, Fe2Al5, FeAl3, τ5C, τ5H, and τ1. The addition of 0.2% Mg can delay the emergence of FeAl3 phase. When the Mg content is more than 0.2%, the outer layers of coating change from τ5C to τ5H phase. The growth of the inhibition layer is diffusion controlled for various Mg content baths. Mg improves the corrosion resistance of the Mg-containing coatings, and the Zn-22.3Al-1.1Si-0.6Mg coating possesses the highest protective properties.

Direct in situ observation of electric field assisted densification of ZnO by energy dispersive X-ray diffraction

Electric field assisted sintering techniques are used to enhance the densification process, reducing sintering time and temperature. Here, we report the in situ characterization of non-isothermal densification behavior of zinc oxide under simultaneous application of thermal and electric field by energy dispersive X-ray diffraction. 99% density was achieved under the electric field of 50 V/mm in the 588–843 °C range in a short time without grain growth. The in-situ energy dispersive X-ray diffraction study revealed the abnormal volumetric unit cell expansion of 0.9% at 843 °C associated with the observed sudden rise of the power absorption by the specimen during densification. Moreover, the variation in peak broadening as a function of time exhibited singularity in the 588–843 °C range implying the formation and rearrangement of defects correlated with densification during electric field assisted sintering.

Simple Sonochemical Synthesis of Cupric Oxide Sphere Decorated Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite for the Electrochemical Detection of Flutamide Drug in Biological Samples

Reduced graphene oxide/cupric oxide (RGO/CuO) composites were developed by a simple, eco-friendly sonochemical method. This system has been explored as a potential electrocatalyst toward the electrochemical detection of flutamide. The prepared RGO/CuO composite was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Raman spectra studies. In addition, the electrochemical properties of the prepared electrode were investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, and chronoamperometry techniques. The RGO/CuO composite modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) exhibits high electrocatalytic activity toward the detection of flutamide. The RGO/CuO/GCE modified electrode also detects flutamide with a low detection limit (0.001 μM), wide linear range (0.005 to 71.32 μM) and acceptable sensitivity (5.54 μA μM−1cm−2). A fabricated sensor showed good selectivity, repeatability, reproducibility and long-term operational stability. Appreciable recoveries were achieved for the detection of flutamide in water and in biological samples, demonstrating the practical feasibility of the RGO/CuO/GCE modified electrode.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticle with Colocasia esculenta (L.) stem and its larvicidal activity against Culex quinquefasciatus and Chironomus sp

Objective: To synthesize silver nanoparticles with Colocasia esculenta as a reducing agent and to evaluate their effect against Culex quinquefasciatus and Chironomus sp. Methods: The aqueous extract of Colocasia esculenta stem was used for nanosynthesis. The synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and Zeta potential studies. The toxicity of Colocasia esculenta stem extract and the synthesized silver nanoparticles was evaluated against the larval stages of target human filarial vector Culex quinquefasciatus and non-target Chironomus sp. Results: Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy studies revealed almost spherical shape of the synthesized silver nanoparticles with size ranging from 13-50 nm. After 24 hours of exposure, the LC50 and LC90 of the plant extract against 4th instars larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus were 745.56 mg/L and 1 258.28 mg/L, respectively, which were higher than those of synthesized silver nanoparticles (5.17 mg/L and 17.32 mg/L after 24 h; 1.58 mg/L and 13.01 mg/L after 48 h). In addition, the LC50 and LC90 of silver nanoparticles against Chironomus sp. were 9.71 mg/L and 23.15 mg/L after 24 h as well as 2.38 mg/L and 19.49 mg/ L after 48 h, respectively. Conclusions: The aqueous stem extract of Colocasia esculenta is a good agent for synthesis of silver nanoparticles, which are almost spherical with size less than 30 nm. The synthesized nanoparticles show good larvicidal activity without any harmful effect on non-target species.

Hydrothermal Growth of Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanorods (NRs), Structural, and Chemical Composition Studies for pH Measurement Sensor Applications

Nanostructured Zinc Oxide (ZnO) have a significant interest in electrochemical sensor applications. This paper presents the design and fabrication of ZnO nanorods (NRs) based electrochemical capacitive sensor for pH measurement applications. Two-step programmed spin coating deposition of ZnO seed layer followed by the hydrothermal growth of ZnO nanostructures having NRs morphology lead to the fabrication and calibration of the capacitive sensor. The structural and chemical composition of the ZnO thin film layers is examined with field emission scanning electron microscopy (FeSEM) with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and X-Ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The synthesized NRs exhibit crystallinity properties and average crystallite size of the ZnO NRs is 54.18 nm. The ZnO NRs developed on Aluminum substrate was used as a capacitive sensor and it has a potential application in pH measurement in a micro solutions media.

HIGH TEMPERATURE TRIBOLOGICAL BEHAVIOR OF STIR-CAST Al–TiB2 METAL MATRIX COMPOSITES

This study considers high temperature tribological behavior of Al-TiB2 aluminum matrix composites (AMCs) fabricated through stir cast method. Effect of operating temperature on wear and friction behavior is studied for four different weight percentages of reinforcements using a high-temperature tribo-tester over a temperature range of 50[Formula: see text]C–250[Formula: see text]C under normal load in the range of 25–75[Formula: see text]N. Surface morphology and wear debris are studied through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies are performed to observe the wear mechanism at high temperature. Increase in the amount of reinforcement improves wear resistance of composites at all temperatures. Friction and rate of wear are found to increase with operating temperature. Formation of oxide layers and softening of the surface are found to play crucial role in controlling the tribological behavior of stir cast Al–TiB2 composites at high operating temperatures.

Palladium nanoparticles synthesis, characterization using glucosamine as the reductant and stabilizing agent to explore their antibacterial & catalytic applications

Low cost and an easy technique for the synthesis of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) was developed. Glucosamine was used to stabilize palladium precursor (PdCl2) into palladium nanoparticles. Several analytical techniques were used for the determination of morphology, crystalline structure; size, capping, and composition of synthesize palladium nanoparticles. The UV-visible spectroscopy SPR peak (Surface Plasmon Resonance) at 284 nm revealed synthesis of PdNPs. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies proved the elemental composition and crystalline structure of the synthesized palladium nanoparticles respectively. The average particle sizes (5.5 nm) were obtained by using the 1 M glucosamine solution, with a fixed amount of PdCl2 (4 mM). Moreover, the as synthesized PdNPs was evaluated against Gram negative bacterial E. which shows tremendous antibacterial activity as compare to tobramycin standard antibiotics. It's mechanistically found that PdNPs damage cell membrane and caused imbalance of metabolism system of the cell as a result production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Thus, these finding revealed that cells become leaky and all organelles come out from cells, finally caused death of the E. coli. Addition, the as prepared PdNPs also showed excellent catalytic activities toward reduction of methylene blue and 4-nitrophenol.Thus, glucosamine mediated PdNPs having dual functions biomedical as well as intoxicating catalyst for industries.

Synthesis, structural characterization and antimicrobial activities of polyindole stabilized Ag-Co3O4 nanocomposite by reflux condensation method

Polyindole stabilized silver‒cobalt oxide (Pind/Ag‒Co3O4) nanocomposites were synthesized, characterized and evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Polyindole, cobalt oxide and Pind/Ag‒Co3O4 were prepared by chemical oxidative polymerization, co-precipitation and reflux condensation method, respectively. Colloidal nanoparticles of polyindole, cobalt oxide and nanocomposite were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray diffraction study (SEM-EDAX) and high resolution transmission electron microscope with selected area diffraction (HRTEM-SAED). FTIR spectra revealed the functional group’s transformation of cobalt oxide nanoparticles. The crystalline nature of the samples was confirmed by XRD study. The SEM images revealed the various shapes and surface morphology of the nanocomposites. Further, the elemental composition was confirmed by EDAX. The HRTEM images showed shapes such as spherical, cylindrical, rectangular, rods, oval and square. The average particle size of the nanocomposites found to be ∼20 nm which is in good agreement with XRD analysis in terms of the size of the crystalline. The Pind/Ag‒Co3O4 nanocomposites exhibited improved antibacterial and antifungal activities against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Hence, these nanocomposites could be used as a potential candidate for the biomedical applications.

Albizia chevalier based Ag nanoparticles: Anti-proliferation, bactericidal and pollutants degradation performance

The eco-friendly biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNps) from bark extract of Albizia chevalier are reported here for their anti-proliferative, antibacterial and pollutant degradation potentials. The synthesized AgNps were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy dispersive X-rays spectrometry (EDS) and X-ray diffraction studies. The TEM and FESEM images show a monodispersed spherical shaped particles of approximately 30 nm. Crystalline peaks were obtained for the synthesized AgNps in XRD spectrum. The AgNps were investigated for in vitro anticancer and antibacterial activities and its potential to degrade 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) and congo red dye (CR). The MTT results shows a significant dose-dependent antiproliferation effect of the AgNps on the cell lines HepG2, MDA-MB-231 and MFC7. The effect was found more pronounced in MDA-MB-231 as compared to MFC-7 cell lines. The antibacterial results indicated 99 and 95% killing of Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) respectively, after 24 h of incubation with the AgNps. The AgNps were found to speed up the reductive degradation of 4-NP and CR dye, which give an alternative route for the removal of toxic organic pollutants from the wastewater. The synthesized AgNps were not only used as a bactericidal and anticancer agent, but also effectively used for the reductive degradation of carcinogenic compounds which are listed as the priority pollutants. Therefore, AgNps have the potential for the treatment of various cancers, bacterial infections and for industrial detoxification of wastewater.

Platanus orientalis Leaf Mediated Rapid Synthesis of Catalytic Gold and Silver Nanoparticles

In an attempt to synthesize novel catalytic gold (AuNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) we have used Platanus orientalis leaf extract for both reduction and capping. The synthesis was rapid which completed by 5 h as indicated by change in colour and development of prominent peak at 540 nm for AuNPs and 440 nm for AgNPs, as revealed by UV-visible spectroscopy. The phytogenic nanoparticles showed exotic shapes which included triangles, spheres, hexagons and pentagons as analyzed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The optimized processing parameters like salt concentration (1 mM concentration of HAuCl4 and 4 mM of AgNO3) and the reaction temperature (50°C) led to faster nanoparticles synthesis. Energy dispersive spectra and X-ray diffraction studies confirmed the elemental gold and silver in AuNPs and AgNPs. Detailed phytochemical characterization using biochemical techniques and gas chromatography mass spectrometry indicated the predominance of ascorbic acid, citric acid, reducing sugars and even starch which may together lead to simultaneous synthesis and capping. Further, AuNPs and AgNPs catalyzed the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) using NaBH4 with apparent rate constants of 1.908 × 10-4 min-1 and 3.071 × 10-4 min-1, respectively.

Structural, optical and electrical properties of zinc incorporated copper oxide nanoparticles: doping effect of Zn

The present paper demonstrates the effect of Zn ion doping on structural, electrical and optical properties of monoclinic CuO nanoparticles prepared via microwave combustion method. The crystal structure, optical and electrical properties of synthesized CuO and Zn-doped CuO samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction study, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction study, UV–Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and photoconductivity technique. The XRD values show that the crystalline size of Zn-doped CuO nanoparticles was varied with Zn concentration and also it depends on the micro-strain and dislocation density of CuO lattice. FE-SEM and TEM images indicated that the synthesized samples are of the cube and rod-like structures in nature. The band gap of CuO nanoparticles has been calculated using Tauc’s plot and the result showed that the incorporation of Zn has decreased the bandgap of CuO. The I–V characterization study was performed to determine the electrical property of CuO and Zn-doped CuO films. From the results, it is observed that the photocurrent of CuO and Zn-doped CuO films is found to be greater in UV-light as compared to dark.

Optimization of post-deposition annealing in Cu2ZnSnS4 thin film solar cells and its impact on device performance

In this work we present an optimization of the post-deposition annealing, in Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin film solar cells, applied at different stages of the solar cell preparation, namely, bare CZTS absorber, CZTS/CdS heterojunction and CZTS/CdS/i-ZnO/ITO complete solar cell. We performed current-density measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman scattering, photoluminescence (PL) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) studies to enlighten the mechanisms by which solar cells performance improvement comes about. As a result, we concluded that the optimum post-deposition annealing for CZTS is at 300°C for 15min and at atmospheric pressure. The highest efficiency gain was obtained when the absorber layer composition is close to the ideal one and when a single annealing step is performed on complete solar cells, where, we obtained efficiency improvements from below 1% to over 6.6%. Despite the observed improvement in device performance for annealing at intermediate stages it is, however, less pronounced than for full cell annealing. In this process we demonstrate very substantial cell performance improvements. XRD results show a shift of all Bragg peaks to lower diffraction angle values, after post-deposition annealing. Also, the intensity of the peaks decreases and their full width at half maximum increases. PL measurements show that, post-deposition annealing, leads to a clear reduction of the non-radiative recombination channels and that the electronic structure is dominated by fluctuating potentials. XPS measurements reveal an interdiffusion of Cu, Zn and possibly Cd across the interface between buffer and CZTS absorber layers as the source of the significant observed cell performance enhancement.