Photoluminescence and photoconductivity of ZnS:Mn2+ nanoparticles synthesized via co-precipitation method

Mn2+ doped ZnS nanoparticles are characterized using UV–vis, photoluminescence and photoconductivity studies. The size of Mn2+ doped ZnS NPs is estimated to be 2–4 nm by X-ray diffraction. UV–vis spectra show a blue shift in absorption edge as compared to bulk counterpart. Photoluminescence spectra indicate that orange luminescence varies with Mn2+ concentration. The Mn2+ doped ZnS nanoparticles are found to be photosensitive. The doping of Mn2+ ions improves the photosensitivity of the ZnS nanoparticles system. The time-resolved rise and decay of photocurrent indicate anomalous behavior during steady state illumination.