Synthesis of Cu₂In₂O₅ and CuInGaO ₄ nanoparticles

This article reports the use of a chemical route for the synthesis of single-crystalline Cu₂In₂O₅ and CuInGaO ₄ nanoparticles. The precursors include aqueous solutions of nitrates, chlorides, and sulfates of Cu, In, and Ga. Precipitates of Cu, In, and Ga hydroxides were first obtained through the addition of NaOH into the aqueous solutions having various concentrations. The precipitates were then calcined at different temperatures for different durations. Depending on the type of salt and calcination condition, single phases Cu₂In₂O ₅, and CuInGaO₄, or the mixture of both oxides were obtained. Reaction mechanisms are proposed to explain the formation of the oxides obtained.