The search for novel materials has recently brought research
attention
to alkali metal-based chalcogenides (ABZ) as a new class of semiconducting
inorganic materials. Various theoretical and computational studies
have highlighted many compositions of this class as ideal functional
materials for application in energy conversion and storage devices.
This Perspective discusses the expansive compositional landscape of
ABZ compositions that inherently gives a wide spectrum of properties
with great potential for application. In the present paper, we examine
the technique of synthesizing this particular class of materials and
explore their potential for compositional engineering in order to
manipulate key functional properties. This study presents the notable
findings that have been documented thus far in addition to outlining
the potential avenues for implementation and the associated challenges
they present. By fulfilling the sustainability requirements of being
relativity earth-abundant, environmentally benign, and biocompatible,
we anticipate a promising future for alkali metal chalcogenides.
Through this Perspective, we aim to inspire continued research on
this emerging class of materials, thereby enabling forthcoming breakthroughs
in the realms of photovoltaics, thermoelectrics, and energy storage.