Size and shape effects on the band gap of semiconductor compound nanomaterials

Abstract

The size- and shape-dependent band gap energy of semiconductor compound nanomaterials (SCNs) is formulated. The model theory is based on the cohesive energy of the nanocrystals compared to the bulk crystals. We have considered CdSe, CdTe, ZnS, ZnSe and ZnTe semiconductors compounds for the study of size- and shape-dependent band gap energy. It is found that the band gap energy of SCN depends upon the particle size and shape. The model predicts that the band gap energy increases as particle size of the semiconductor nanomaterials decreases. The results obtained are compared with the available experimental data, which support the validity of the model reported.