Exploration of spray pyrolysis technique in preparation of absorber material CFATS: Unprecedented hydrophilic surface and antibacterial properties

In this study, we achieve the production of nontoxic Cu2Fe1-xAlxSnS4 films (x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1) by substituting Fe with Al atoms. Physical properties investigated were studied using: Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, spectrophotometer drop shape analysis system (DSA). The formation new quaternary Cu3Al0.6Sn1S6 (CATS) chalcogenide for x 1 was proven from EDX study. Notably, major peaks located at 2? 28.34°, 47.43° 55.93° which are respectively tagged as (1 2), (2 0 4), (3 2) plans, confirming stannite crystal structure film. morphological states show a nanofiber accompanied voids cavities CATS films. Tauc-relation plot reveals direct energy bandgap, close to 1.52 eV, proves absorber film type Cu3Al0.6Sn1S6. effluent toxicity obtained thin has been assessed using inhibition Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria indicated good antibacterial activity CATS/SnO2:F heterojunction. viability rates against S. aureus achieved 40 %, 31 % 15% SnO2:F, These results highlight great coupled CATS/SnO2:F. Therefore research underscores effectiveness surface demonstrates self-disinfecting self-cleaning hydrophilicity high activity.