Using a precursor in lamellar structure for the synthesis of uniform ZnS nanocrystals

Uniform ZnS nanocrystals of about 15 nm were prepared through a low temperature hydrothermal approach by treating Zn-PhPO nanosheets with Na 2S aqueous solution. Both the precursor and the final product were studied by the means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The photo-luminescent spectrum of the synthesized ZnS nanocrystals showed their good crystalline nature. Based on this study, the precursor structure-controlling effect was discussed, and in addition, the relevant factors possibly affecting the particle formation and the growth possessed were applied in the discussion to interpret the transformation mechanism. Further research showed that both the structure characters of the precursors and the mass transportation which occurred during the synthesis greatly affected the morphology and organization state of the final products. This research may provide some facts on the structure-controlling approaches along with a general method for the preparation of uniform sulfide nanocrystals. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2011.