Synthesis and Characterization of Eu3+-Doped CdS Quantum Dots by a Single-Step Aqueous Method

Eu3+-doped CdS quantum dots (QDs) are successfully synthesized through a straightforward single-pot process in aqueous solution using thioglycolic acid as the capping ligand. The structure, shape, and spectral properties of the QDs are investigated. The obtained CdS:Eu3+ QDs exhibit cubic structures with good crystallinity and approximately sphere-like shapes about 4 nm in diameter. The CdS QDs manifest a broadband emission peak at 600 nm and enhanced Photoluminescence (PL) emission intensity after doping with Eu3+ ions. Given the strong PL intensity and good chromaticity of the sulfide-based QDs, they have potential use in doping rare-earth ions.