Low-cost spray-processed Ag{sub 1−x}Cu{sub x}InS{sub 2} nano-films: Structural and functional investigation within the Lattice Compatibility Theory framework

Highlights: • Cu{sub x}Ag{sub 1−x}InS{sub 2} with a minimal lattice mismatch between absorbers and buffers. • The lattice compatibility for understanding silver–copper kinetics. • Controlled and enhanced spray pyrolisis method as a low-cost synthesis protocol. - Abstract: This work deals with some structural and optical investigations about Cu{sub x}Ag{sub 1−x}InS{sub 2} alloys sprayed films and the beneficial effect of copper incorporation in AgInS{sub 2} ternary matrices. The main purpose of this work is to obtain the band gap energy E{sub g} as well as different lattice parameters. The studied properties led to reaching minimum of lattice mismatch between absorber and buffer layers within solar cell devices. As a principal and original finding, the lattice compatibility between both silver and copper indium disulfide structures has been proposed as a guide for understanding kinetics of these materials crystallization.