Synthesis of FeS2 (pyrite) nanotube through sulfuration of Fe2O3 nanotube

Pyrite (FeS2) has been widely used in the photovoltaic field due to its various advantages. In this study, FeS2 nanotube arrays were successfully synthesized by sulfuration of the precursor Fe2O3 nanotube arrays. The microstructure, crystalline phase and optical characteristics of FeS2 nanotube arrays were investigated. It was found that the precursor with tubular nano-topography could effectively accelerate the diffusion rate of sulfur atoms and make the sulfuration more complete. The structure of FeS2 nanotube could enlarge the optical absorption area and enhance the scattering of incident light which would extend the travel path of photon in the nanotube coating and ultimately promoted the optical absorption. The bandgap of FeS2 nanotube arrays was 1.24 eV.