Investigation of the Influence of Structure, Stoichiometry, and Synthesis Temperature on the Optical Properties of CdTe Nanoplatelets

Colloidal cadmium telluride (CdTe) nanoplatelets (NPLs) are promising materials for optoelectronic applications, such as photovoltaics and light-emitting diodes, due to their unique optical and electronic properties. However, controlling their growth, thickness, and stoichiometry remains challenging. This study explores the effect of synthesis temperature on the structural, optical, and stoichiometric properties of CdTe NPLs. CdTe NPLs were synthesized at temperatures of 170 °C, 180 °C, 190 °C, and 200 °C using colloidal methods. The resulting NPLs were characterized by UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) to assess their morphology, structure, and elemental composition. The results showed that the synthesis temperature significantly affected the NPL’s morphology and stoichiometry. Optimal stoichiometry was achieved at 180 °C and 190 °C, with the crystal structure transitioning from zinc blende at lower temperatures to wurtzite at higher temperatures. Optical properties, including luminescence intensity and emission peaks, also varied with temperature. The synthesis temperature is an important parameter in controlling the structural and optical properties of CdTe NPLs. The optimal conditions for obtaining NPLs with the best characteristics were identified at 190 °C, presenting important findings for further optimization of CdTe NPL synthesis for optoelectronic applications.