A Computational and Experimental Investigation of the Phonon and Optical Properties of Au₂P₃

In a combined experimental and theoretical study of gold phosphide (Au₂P₃), we investigate its vibrational properties, band structure, and dielectric properties, providing new insight into the properties of this underexplored material. Using a simple synthesis route, Au₂P₃ thin films were produced, enabling the first reported Raman analysis of this material. Coupled with first-principles calculations of these Raman modes, this analysis reveals that low-frequency vibrations are due to Au or mixed Au to P, and at higher frequencies, they are due to P vibrations. Further band structure and dielectric calculations reveal Au₂P₃ to be a narrow band (0.16 eV) indirect semiconductor. This work helps to fill major gaps in our understanding of key properties in this material that will benefit future research in this field.