Synthesis and characterization of Gd doped ZnS nanoparticles: Enhanced photoluminescence properties

Pristine ZnS and Gd (6 at. %) doped ZnS nanoparticles have been synthesized by facile chemical co precipitation method in aqueous media at room temperature using PVP as a surface capping agent. The as-prepared samples were characterized by structural, morphological, chemical composition and photoluminescence studies. X-ray diffraction measurements confirmed that pristine and Gd (6 at.%) doped ZnS nanoparticles exhibited cubic zincblende crystal structure. The average particle size obtained from the XRD and TEM were in good agreement with each other. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) measurement showed the existence of Gd ion in the Gd-doped ZnS nanoparticles. The PL spectra showed enhanced luminescence intensity with the introduction of Gd into ZnS, while the emission wavelength was slightly shifted to higher wavelength side.