Green innovation: cool white light emission from inorganic ZnS nanoparticles with tunable structural and optical properties

In the realm of luminescent materials, white light emitting inorganic nanoparticles offers a promising avenue for creating more efficient and durable light emitting devices. Here the production of cool white light emission from Inorganic Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) nanoparticles have been achieved by simple green co- precipitation method, employing Phyllanthus emblica extract as the capping agent. The structural and optical properties were studied using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM–EDX), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) with Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) pattern, UV–visible and photoluminescence (PL) analysis. The XRD analysis confirms the cubic crystalline nature of the sample. The tauc plot study confirms the particle size dependent change in the energy bandgap. Tunable visible emissions are observed from PL spectra and undoped ZnS nanoparticles display cool white emission (x = 0.3056, y = 0.3030) characterized by a high Correlated Color Temperature (CCT = 7255 K) and excellent Color Rendering Index (CRI = 93). These attributes position them as suitable for integration into Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) as phosphors. Green synthesized ZnS nanoparticles, owing to their tunable structural and optical properties, demonstrate substantial promise in revolutionizing multiple sectors, particularly in advanced lightening and display applications.