First-principles calculations of ternary Sr2ZnN2 compound using density-functional theory (DFT) method within the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) has been performed. Based on the optimized structural parameter, the electronic properties and optical properties have been researched. The calculated lattice constants are in agreement with the experimental and theoretical results. The electronic structure have been investigated throughout the calculated band structure and density of states (DOS). It shows that this compound belongs to the semiconductors with a band gap of about 0.775[Formula: see text]eV. Furthermore, in order to clarify the optical transition of this material, the optical properties such as dielectric function, absorption coefficient, reflectivity, refractive index and energy-loss function at different pressures of 0, 10 and 20[Formula: see text]GPa in the energy range 0–20[Formula: see text]eV were performed and discussed. It shows that Sr2ZnN2 is a strong anisotropy material and the imaginary part of dielectric function shifts to higher energy region as the pressure increases. The square of calculated static refractive index is equal to static dielectric function, which corresponds to the theory formula. In conclusion, pressure is a effective method to change the electronic structure and optical properties.
