Effect of Common-Cation CdB^VI Compounds on the Properties of Solid Solutions of ZnS–CdB^VI Systems

Abstract

Solid solutions of ZnS–CdB^VI systems (B = S, Se, Te), identified as substitutional solid solutions with the sphalerite and wurtzite structures, are prepared using a previously developed technique. Multifaceted investigation of the prepared systems includes the characterizations of their bulk—crystallographic, structural, and electrical and physical—properties; the surface properties (surface chemical composition and acid-base properties); and identification of the nature, acidity, and surface density of active (acid) sites, which enriches our knowledge of diamond-like semiconductors. The dependences of the bulk and surface properties on the system composition are established. These results can facilitate and expand the search for new materials for modern technology, including sensor devices. We discuss the prospective search for new materials on the basis of the considered systems and provide practical recommendations for sensor fabrication.