Research Article
Influence of pH Variation on the Structural Properties of ZnS Nanocrystals Synthesized Via Low-Temperature Chemical Deposition
Bijoy Barman*
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 1, March 2025
Pages:
1-6
Received:
27 January 2025
Accepted:
13 February 2025
Published:
24 February 2025
Abstract: The structural properties of nanomaterials play a crucial role in determining their performance in various applications. This study investigates the effect of pH variation on the structural properties of ZnS nanocrystals synthesized via low-temperature chemical deposition. ZnS nanoparticles were prepared in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) host matrix, with pH values ranging from 2.2 to 2.8. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses reveal that an increase in pH enhances crystallinity, resulting in narrower peaks and larger grain sizes. The average grain sizes of the films with varying pH values are found to range from 4.63 nm to 6.37 nm. The lattice constant evaluated using Nelson Reiley plot (N-R plot) ranges from 5.363 Å to 5.420 Å (pH 2.2-2.8), which slightly deviates from the standard 5.406 Å, suggesting compressive strain in the films, possibly due to sulfur deficiency. It was also observed that as pH decreases, there is an increase in microstrain and dislocation density probably due to lattice contraction. Results from the Williamson-Hall analysis confirm these trends, showing reductions in both average grain size and lattice strain at lower pH. These findings highlight the critical role of pH in controlling the structural characteristics of ZnS thin films, providing insights for optimizing ZnS properties for specific technological applications.
Abstract: The structural properties of nanomaterials play a crucial role in determining their performance in various applications. This study investigates the effect of pH variation on the structural properties of ZnS nanocrystals synthesized via low-temperature chemical deposition. ZnS nanoparticles were prepared in a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) host matrix, wi...
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