Stabilization of ZnS nanoparticles by polymeric matrices: syntheses, optical properties and recent applications

ZnS has been one of the most investigated II-IV semiconductor materials, known for very interesting optoelectronic properties and its versatile applications in various fields. The transition from bulk to nano regime has brought forth some drastic changes in the optical properties of ZnS. In this review article, we have comprehensively discussed the surface passivation of ZnS nanoparticles by various polymeric ligands/matrix. Systematic investigation has been reported for state of the art synthesis and novel strategies for fabrication of ZnS nanocomposites have been discussed. A brief account of the pioneer works for ZnS has been described and their fundamental properties have been discussed. The characterization techniques in understanding the formation and stabilization of ZnS nanocomposites are highlighted. The article primarily focuses on the main features, synthesis techniques, and optical properties of polymer based ZnS nanocomposites. We have tried to cover recent application and developments in field of polymer based ZnS nanocomposites in biosensing, cell tagging, optoelectronic devices, heterogeneous catalysis, photocatalytic application etc. Overall this article provides an insight to optimize the synthetic routes and condition for better utilization of ZnS nanocomposites and provide an outlook to expand these applications to other areas, such as drug delivery, labeling, tracking agents, bioanalytical sensors, fluorescent probes, optics, information storage, and optoelectronics. ZnS nanocomposites is a promising area of research for designing novel functional hybrid materials due to their unique optical and electronic properties. This review emphasizes on the synthesis, optical studies and potential applications.