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Wurtzite-type ZnS nanoparticles by pulsed electric discharge
Emil Omurzak1, Tsutomu Mashimo, Saadat Sulaimankulova
1Priority Organization for Innovation and Excellence, Kumamoto University, Kurokami, Kumamoto, Japan. emil@kumamoto-u.ac.jp
Nanotechnology
|August 13, 2011
Summary
Researchers synthesized wurtzite-type zinc sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles using electric discharge in molten sulfur. This novel method produced ZnS nanocrystals with unique lattice parameters and optical properties, including a blue-shift in absorption.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Plasma Physics
Background:
- Zinc sulfide (ZnS) is a semiconductor with diverse applications.
- Existing synthesis methods for ZnS nanoparticles often involve complex procedures or specific precursors.
- Controlling the phase and properties of ZnS during synthesis is crucial for its applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel method for synthesizing wurtzite-type ZnS nanoparticles.
- To investigate the structural and optical properties of the synthesized ZnS nanoparticles.
- To explore the synthesis of ZnS-based solid solutions.
Main Methods:
- Pulsed electric discharge plasma generated between zinc electrodes submerged in molten sulfur.
- Synthesis of zinc magnesium sulfide (ZnMgS) solid solutions using ZnMg alloy electrodes.
- Characterization using UV-visible absorption spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized wurtzite-type ZnS nanocrystals with an average size of approximately 20 nm.
- Observed refined lattice parameters larger than standard ZnS.
- Demonstrated a blue-shift in the UV-visible absorption peak (319 nm) compared to bulk ZnS (335 nm).
- Photoluminescence spectra showed emissions related to excitonic emission and stoichiometric defects.
Conclusions:
- Electric discharge in molten sulfur is an effective method for producing wurtzite-type ZnS nanoparticles.
- The synthesized nanoparticles exhibit distinct structural and optical properties compared to bulk ZnS.
- The method allows for the synthesis of ZnS-based solid solutions, expanding material possibilities.
