Synthesis of wurtzite ZnS nanoparticles using the microwave assisted solvothermal method

[Display omitted] ► This work details the efficiency of microwave solvothermal synthesis in obtaining ZnS nanocrystals. ► The structure, surface chemical composition and optical properties were investigated as function of the precursor. ► According to the different precursors used, the PL behavior of ZnS causes a red shift which enables the design of LEDs with different colors. ► Photoluminescence is one more interesting property for technological applications this material. In this article, we report the development of an efficient and rapid microwave assisted solvothermal (MAS) method to prepare wurtzite ZnS nanoparticles at 413K using different precursors. The materials obtained were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (MET) ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) and photoluminescence (PL) measurements. The structure, surface chemical composition and optical properties were investigated as a function of the precursor. In addition, effects as well as merits of microwave heating on the processing and characteristics of ZnS nanoparticles obtained are reported. The possible formation mechanism and optical properties of these nanoparticles were also reported.