Mechanochemical Reduction of Chalcopyrite CuFeS₂: Changes in Composition and Magnetic Properties

High-energy milling of sulphides with a reactive metal in so-called mechanochemical reduction mode can lead to products in nanorange and to composition which simplifies the following metallurgical processing. Chalcopyrite CuFeS₂, a ternary semiconductor with antiferromagnetic properties represents promising candidate as an advanced material for use in inexpensive nanoelectronics (solar cells, magnetic area), as well as copper ore source in metallurgical operations. In this work, the process of mechanochemical reduction of chalcopyrite with elemental iron is studied. The composition and properties of nanopowder prepared by high-energy milling were analyzed by X-ray diffraction and magnetic measurements. Most of the reaction takes place during 30 min with chalcocite Cu₂S and troilite FeS as the only reaction products. The magnetic investigations reveal significant increase of saturation magnetization as a result of milling. Unlike the conventional high-temperature reduction of chalcopyrite, the mechanochemical reduction is fast and ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure are sufficient for its propagation.