Synthesis of CdS nanocrystals based on low-temperature thermolysis of one single-sourceorganometallic precursor

Abstract

CdS nanocrystals have been synthesized based on low-temperature thermolysisof one single-source organometallic precursor in noncoordinating (ethanol) orcoordinating (oleic acid) solvent. The organometallic precursor was prepared byusing cadmium chloride, thiourea and sodium hydroxide in ethanol solution. Theproducts were characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy(HRTEM) and x-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The nucleation and growth stagewere investigated by ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption spectroscopy. CdSnanocrystals prepared in oleic acid have a narrower size distribution than thoseprepared in ethanol. Phase transformation of CdS nanocrystals from a cubic tohexagonal structure in ethanol solution during the ageing stage was observed.Strong photoluminescence was observed in CdS nanocrystals prepared in oleic acid.