Influence of Al-doping on the crystallographic, morphological, optical, and photoluminescence properties of ZnS nanoparticles

Al-doped (0, 2, 7, and 12%) ZnS nanoparticles were prepared successfully through hydrothermal methods. The influence of the dopant Al (0, 2, 7, and 12%) has been explored for the various properties of ZnS nanoparticles. The XRD spectrograph ensured a cubic structure for undoped and Al-doped ZnS nanoparticles with a mean particle size of 2 nm. Spherical granular morphology with agglomeration was observed from SEM images, and the EDS studies confirmed the elements' presence percentage. Vibrational modes and the bonding nature of Zn-S-Al were systematically evaluated from FTIR analysis. UV–visible absorption analysis reveals a red shift on the optical bandgap, which varies from 3.55 to 3.45 eV on doping Al in the ZnS matrix. PL spectra show a wide range of emission and undergo a blue shift with a reduced intense emission for the Al-doped ZnS samples. This incorporation of Al in the ZnS nanoparticles enhanced the optical absorbance properties and structural stability and led to high advantages for optical applications and improved performance of optoelectronic devices.