Understanding the thermal stability of silver nanoparticles embedded in a-Si

DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcc.5b07324

Authors: Anna L. Gould (UK Catalysis Hub, Research Complex at Harwell; University College London) , Shima Kadkhodazadeh (Technical University of Denmark) , Jakob B. Wagner (Technical University of Denmark) , C. Richard A. Catlow (UK Catalysis Hub, Research Complex at Harwell; University College London) , Andrew J. Logsdail (University College London) , Marcel Di Vece (Utrecht University)
Co-authored by industrial partner: No

Type: Journal Paper
Journal: The Journal Of Physical Chemistry C , VOL 119 (41) , PAGES 23767 - 23773

State: Published (Approved)
Published: October 2015

Abstract: The inclusion of silver plasmonic nanoparticles in silicon is highly relevant for photovoltaics as it may enhance optical absorption. We report an investigation of the stability of such pristine silver nanoparticles embedded in a-Si upon heat treatment. We have investigated the morphological changes via in situ and ex situ high-resolution and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM and HAADF STEM). The melting of Ag particles and subsequent interdiffusion of Ag and Si atoms are strongly related to the size of the Ag nanoparticles, as well as the presence of surface imperfections. Partial voids in the amorphous-Si framework are formed where sections of the Ag nanoparticles are found preferentially to diffuse away due to geometric instability. Computational simulations using ensemble molecular dynamics confirm the experimental results: the structural properties of the amorphous-Si environment are important as well as incomplete packing of the Ag nanoparticle surfaces. These factors affect the melting temperature, causing some parts of the Ag nanoparticles to dissolve preferentially and other areas to remain stable at high temperatures.

Journal Keywords: Transmission electron microscopy; Nanoparticles; Melting; Silicon,

Diamond Keywords: Photovoltaics; Semiconductors

Subject Areas: Chemistry, Materials


Technical Areas:

Added On: 08/02/2016 14:17

Documents:
acs.jpcc.5b07324.pdf

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Earth Sciences & Environment Sustainable Energy Systems Energy Climate Change Physical Chemistry Energy Materials Chemistry Materials Science Nanoscience/Nanotechnology

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