Enhanced structural properties of electrochemically synthesised NiFeS using 500 keV carbon C ++ ions irradiation

ABSTRACTAn electrochemical approach was used to synthesise nickel iron sulphide (NiFeS) materials in this work. The prepared NiFeS underwent a thorough investigation, which included analyses of its optical, electrical, structural, morphological, elemental, and functional group properties. Cubic crystal formations with prominent peaks were visible from the structural pattern. Nanoflakes and pebbles were visible, and their elements were determined through elemental dispersive X-ray diffractometer (EDX) spectrum. The film’s crystallinity increased after incorporating carbon ions and its optical properties improved, with energy band gap values ranging from 1.50 eV to 1.15 eV as the peaks became more distinct. The materials produced could be utilised in the production of solar cells and optoelectronic devices. The electrical conductivity diminishes with increasing thickness. Carbon ion radiation increases carrier concentration, which increases electrical conductivity.Research highlightsNiFeS was irradiated using 500 keV carbon C++ ions beam irradiationNiFeS without irradiation has a bandgap of 1.50 eV, while the irradiated material had bandgaps between 1.35-1.15 eV.The film’s crystallinity was enhanced by incorporating carbon ionsNanogels and nanoflakes were seen in the micrographs of the unirradiated materials.KEYWORDS: NickelNiFeSions beamcarbonenergy bandgapirradiation Disclosure statementThe authors affirm no financial or interpersonal conflicts affected the research in this study.Data availability statementData can be given upon request.Authors’ credit statementIjabor Okeoghene Blessing, Haneef Shah, Imosobomeh L. Ikhioya: Conceptualisation, Methodology, Original Draft Writing, Imosobomeh L. Ikhioya and Shahbaz Afzal: software, and editing. Imosobomeh L. Ikhioya: Investigation and visualisation.