Zn1 Cu2 Ge1 Se4

ZnCu₂GeSe₄ is a quaternary semiconducting compound belonging to the chalcogenide family, combining zinc, copper, germanium, and selenium in a layered crystal structure. This material is primarily of research interest for photovoltaic and thermoelectric applications, where its tunable bandgap and mixed-metal composition offer potential advantages over simpler binary or ternary semiconductors. The copper-germanium-selenium framework is explored as an alternative to lead-based perovskites and conventional CIGS absorbers, with the zinc substitution providing tailoring of electronic properties and thermal stability.