Synthesis of ZnS:Mn2+ and ZnS:Mn2+/ZnS core–shell nanoparticles using poly(methyl methacrylate)

G Murugadoss

doi:10.1007/s13204-012-0157-x

Abstract

The water-soluble and high-quality ZnS:Mn2+/ZnS core–shell nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical precipitation method in an air atmosphere. The poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was used as a surfactant. Structural, morphology and optical properties were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV–visible absorption and photoluminescence spectrometer, respectively. The obtained particles were highly crystalline and monodisperse with an average particle size ranging from 3 to 6 nm. A typical plant-(leafs, stem, and roots) like structures were obtained by passivation of PMMA on ZnS:Mn2+ surface. The presence of ZnS shell on ZnS:Mn2+ surface was confirmed by XRD, TEM and EPR studies. Well-defined and very narrow size distributed core–shell nanoparticles were prepared by capping with PMMA molecules on ZnS:Mn2+/ZnS core–shell nanoparticles. The PMMA layer on ZnS:Mn2+/ZnS was also clearly identified in the TEM images.

Highlights

Nanometer-sized semiconductor particles which are in strong quantum confinement regime have aroused considerable interest because of their unique and large sizedependant properties
ZnS:Mn2?/ZnS core–shell nanoparticles capped with poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were synthesized at ambient condition
Mn (4 %) doped ZnS nanoparticles have been successfully coated with ZnS (ZnS:Mn2?/ZnS) and capped with PMMA on the (ZnS:Mn2?/ZnS/PMMA) surface

Summary

Introduction

Nanometer-sized semiconductor particles which are in strong quantum confinement regime have aroused considerable interest because of their unique and large sizedependant properties. Keywords Core–shell nanoparticles Á Surface defect Á Monodisperse Á PMMA Á Luminescence The ZnS:Mn2?/ ZnS core/shell nanoparticles are water-soluble and exhibit improved fluorescence property which indicates their potential applications for biological labeling as well as optical devices.

Results

Conclusion