Influence of Cu ion implantation on the microstructure and cathodoluminescence of ZnS nanostructures

• ZnS nanostructures with periodic branches were synthesized through a simple chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process.
• Cu ion implantation leads to the crystallinity deterioration and impurity phase formation.
• The luminescence wavelength and intensity of ZnS nanostructures can be tailored by controlling the Cu ion dose.

The microstructure and optical properties of as-synthesized and Cu ion implanted ZnS nanostructures with branched edges are studied by using high-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM) and spatially-resolved cathodoluminescence measurement. Obvious crystalline deterioration has been observed in Cu-doped ZnS nanostructures due to the invasion of Cu ions into ZnS lattice. It was found that the optical emissions of ZnS nanostructures can be selectively modified through the control of Cu ion dose and subsequent heat treatment. An increase of Cu dopant content will lead to an apparent red-shift of the intrinsic band-gap emission in the UV range and the broadening of defect-related emission in visible range. The influences of Cu ion implantation on the microstructure and related optical properties were discussed.

ZnS nanostructures with periodic branches have been synthesized through a feasible CVD process. Cu ion implantation leads to the crystallinity deterioration and selective optical property tailoring can be realized through controlling the Cu ion dose.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide