Tuning of Mn(II)-doped CdS–ZnS solid solutions for broadband emission

Single-phase solid solution of CdxZn1−yMnyS offers possibility for tuning full color spectrum. A broad emission with FWHM of ∼155 nm leading to a broadband emission can be harvested in a nominal composition such as Cd0.54Zn0.43Mn0.03S by a compounded effect of CdS, ZnS and ZnS:Mn responsible for blue, green and red emission, respectively. Contribution from (i) quantization of energy levels due to nano-dimension, (ii) emission arising from trap (mid-gap) states and (iii) Mn2+ spin-forbidden 4T1 → 6A1 transition is responsible for the mechanism of PL in these solid solutions.