Ni-doped ZnS nanoparticles encapsulated in polypropylene glycol: exploring synthesis, structural integrity, optical behavior and thermal stability
摘要
In this work, we report the successful synthesis of Ni-doped ZnS nanoparticles encapsulated with polypropylene glycol (PPG) via a facile chemical precipitation technique. This study investigates the dual role of PPG as both a capping and stabilizing agent, with varying concentrations used to tailor nanoparticle size, surface properties, and luminescent behavior. Structural characterization confirmed the formation of cubic ZnS:Ni2+ nanoparticles, with an average crystallite size of ~ 3.12 nm at optimal PPG concentration (0.6 mL). The incorporation of Ni2+ ions and the presence of PPG significantly influenced the photoluminescence and UV–visible absorption properties, demonstrating a clear quantum confinement effect. Surface morphology and thermal analysis further validated the enhanced stability and reduced agglomeration due to PPG encapsulation. These findings present a promising route for designing stable, tunable semiconductor nanomaterials with potential applications in optoelectronic devices, sensors, and light-emitting systems.