The versatility of copper tin sulfide

In recent years, the chalcogenide copper tin sulfide (CTS) compound witnessed applicability in various fields, rendering itself as a formidable candidate for various applications. The intrinsic tunable properties accompanied with low cost, easy processing methods and eco-friendly character of CTS compound collectively contribute to new avenues in industrial applications. In past decade, the chalcogenide CTS compound has been extensively studied for thin film solar cell (TFSC) application. However, with the consistent developments in scientific technology, various other applications related to optical, electrochemical, biological, functional coating and gas sensing technology have emerged. It is of vital importance to understand the driving mechanism of these applications for designing a new course for future research. Hence, in this review, an effort to summarize the current progress on the various applications of CTS compound is made. The key factors influencing the multifunctionality such as material properties, synthesis methods, and doping strategy have been scrutinized. The authors have attempted a comprehensive critical assessment of every application with ongoing developments, functional device fabrication, working mechanisms, associated issues/solutions and its potential future. The aim of the article is not only to overview the multiple existing applications of CTS compound but to develop a meritorious platform for further development in generating state of the art applications.