TEM characterization and cathodoluminescence study of mixed-phase ZnS nanostructures

Abstract In this work, we reported the synthesis of ZnS nanostructures featured a laminated morphology through a feasible chemical vapor deposition process. The microstructure and phase purity of as-synthesized ZnS nanostructures were examined by using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (TEM), and it was found that mixed cubic and hexagonal ZnS phases co-existed. The formation of cubic and hexagonal ZnS phases was derived from the numerous stacking faults generated inside the laminated ZnS nanostructures. Optical characterization of the ZnS nanostructures using cathodoluminescence spectrometer indicated that a broad emission band covering the wavelength of 400–600 nm in the visible range has been observed. Finally, the formation mechanism and related optical property of ZnS nanostructure were discussed based on TEM and CL results.