Analysis of the structure, particle morphology and photoluminescent properties of ZnS:Mn2+ nanoparticulate phosphors

Pule V. Raleaooa, Andreas Roodt, Gugu G. Mhlongo, David E. Motaung, Odireleng M. Ntwaeaborwa

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

24 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The structure, particle morphology and photoluminescent properties of n2+ doped ZnS nanoparticles are reported. The X-ray powder diffraction studies showed that incorporation of Mn2+ did not cause any change to the crystallized cubic (sphalerite) phase of ZnS but it reduced crystallinity due to increased incoherent scattering resulting in increased broadening of the diffraction peaks. The average crystallite size calculated from the broadening of the X-ray diffraction peaks using Scherrer equation was ∼2 nm implying that our particles were highly quantum confined. The field emission scanning electron microscopy data confirmed that the undoped ZnS powders consisted mainly of an agglomeration of spherical particles while the Mn2+ doped powders consistent of particles with irregular shapes. The photoluminescence spectroscopy showed simultaneous blue and orange emissions associated with radiative transitions in ZnS and Mn2+ respectively. Postulated mechanism of this dual emission is discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)31-42
Number of pages12
JournalOptik
Volume153
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2018
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Nanoparticles
  • Phosphor
  • Photoluminescence
  • Sol-gel

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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