Abstract

Cu5Se4 nanosheets were synthesized by simple chemical reaction between copper ions and elemental selenium in presence of a strong base. XRD and Raman spectroscopy was used to ascertain the crystal structure and the characteristic bonding between copper and selenium. FE-SEM and HR-TEM analysis clearly shows the formation of nanosheets and the thickness of the sheets is similar to 2.5 nm. An effort has been made to explain the growth mechanism of formed Cu5Se4 nanosheets using periodic bond chain theory. EDAX analysis confirms the purity of the synthesized sample. XPS study shows the presence of mixed valencies of both copper and selenium. Diffused reflectance spectrum of the Cu5Se4 nanosheets was carried out to estimate the band gap and found to be 1.2 eV. Electrochemical behaviour of the Cu5Se4 nanosheets was studied in different background electrolytes and in various pH.