Fast two-step microwave-activated synthesis of Mn doped ZnS nanocrystals: Comparison of the luminescence and doping process with thermochemical approach

►The method result in luminescent ZnS:Mn nanocrystals with sizes around 3 nm, cubic crystalline phase and Mn related luminescence at around 590 nm. ►The method is microwave activated not microwave assisted. ►The method is very fast and synthesis and doping process is done in the experimental times less than 5 min. This is considerably lower than 3 h for conventional heating to achieve similar results. ►Doping process is more effective in microwave activated method. It means that in a nominal Mn/Zn concentration in the solution, more Mn ions are finally included inside the ZnS nanocrystals in microwave activated path. ►The difference in doping process of microwave activated approach and conventional heating (thermochemical) approach is discussed.