ZnS–Graphene nanocomposite: Synthesis, characterization and optical properties

A ZnS–Graphene nanocomposite was prepared by a facile one-step hydrothermal method using zinc nitrate hexahydrate, ethylenediamine and carbon disulfide as precursors, graphene oxide as a template. The composite was characterized by X-ray power diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared, Raman spectra and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results show that graphene oxide was reduced to graphene in the hydrothermal reaction process. Simultaneously, the graphene sheets in the composite are exfoliated and decorated with ZnS nanoparticles. Furthermore, Raman and fluorescence properties of the composite were observed. ZnS–Graphene nanocomposite displays surface-enhanced Raman scattering activity for graphene oxide, and fluorescence enhancement property compared with pure ZnS sample.

Approach of reaction makes the reduction of grapheme oxide and the deposition of Zns on the grapheme sheets occur simultaneously and overcomes the aggregation of the grapheme sheets and Zns.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Graphene oxide is reduced to graphene in the hydrothermal reaction process.
► ZnS nanoparticles are attached onto the almost transparent graphene sheets.
► ZnS–Graphene system shows surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity.
► ZnS–Graphene system displays relatively better fluorescence property than pure ZnS.