Cu2ZnSnS4 ceramic target: Determination of sintering temperature by TG–DSC

In this work, mixed powders of Cu2S, ZnS and SnS2 were used to sinter CZTS ceramic target. Thermal properties of Cu-poor and Zn-rich mixed powders were investigated by thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG–DSC). It has been found that the formation temperature of CZTS was not obvious in DSC curve. Obvious weight loss begun from 800 °C and a strong endothermic peak of melting appeared at around 880 °C depending on the relative tin content in mixed powders. For different compositions in Cu-poor and Zn-rich region, all TG and DSC curves showed similar profile as a function of temperature. To reduce volatilization and low melting point compound of SnS and Cu–Sn–S when sintering, a sintering temperature of 750 °C was adopted. CZTS targets (360 mm×80 mm) have been successfully fabricated with Cu-poor and Zn-rich composition, kesterite phase and high compactness of above 93%.