Formation of AgGaS2 nano-pyramids from Ag2S nanospheres through intermediate Ag2S–AgGaS2 heterostructures and AgGaS2 sensitized Mn2+ emission

Abstract

A one-pot solution synthesis of monodisperse AgGaS₂ nanocrystals with uniform pyramid-like shape is realized for the first time, in which an interesting phase and shape evolution from monodisperse Ag₂S nanospheres to pure AgGaS₂ nano-pyramids through an intermediate stage of Ag₂S–AgGaS₂ heterostructures, is revealed. Evidently, upon introducing Mn²⁺ ions into the reaction system, they are incorporated into AgGaS₂ nano-pyramids which act as efficient sensitization matrixes for the red emission of Mn²⁺ d–d transition under blue excitation. Benefiting from their non-toxicity and facile fabrication, Mn:AgGaS₂ nanocrystals may find potential applications in some fields such as blue chip excited LEDs and bio-labeling.