Development of Novel Cadmium-Free AgInS2 Semiconductor Nanoparticles

AgInS2 (AIS) semiconductor nanoparticles as the novel alternatives to cadmium- or lead-containing semiconductors have attracted much attention both on the theory and application research, based on their tunable fluorescence emission wavelengths, high photostability and low toxicity of chemical composition. The bandgap of AIS nanoparticles can be adjusted from 1.54 to 2.03 eV, which makes AIS nanocrystalline suitable for applications in solar energy conversion. Moreover, the fluorescence emission wavelengths can be tuned in the near-infrared regions, and thus make it the next-generation low-toxicity materials for the applications in bioimaging. In this review, the research progress of the AIS nanoparticles is summarized, including synthetic methods, properties and the possibilities to influence their shape and crystallographic structure. Furthermore, we discuss the potential applications of this novel material in photocatalysis, solar energy conversion and biological area.