Formation of stable and strong green luminescent zno/cd(oh)2 core-shell nanostructure by sol-gel method

Abstract

Highly stable and strong green luminescent ZnO/Cd(OH)2 core-shell nano-particles have been synthesised by simple sol-gel route. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive analysis of X-rays confirm the formation of ZnO/Cd(OH)2 core-shell nanoparticles. The XRD and UV-visible spectroscopy shows that ZnO core size can be efficiently engineered by varying initial precursor ratio. The photoluminescence emission spectra showed the remarkably stable and enhanced visible (green) emission from suspended ZnO/Cd(OH)2 nanoparticles in comparison with bare ZnO nanoparticles. It was postulated that Cd(OH)2 layer at the surface of ZnO nanoparticles prevent the agglomeration of nanoparticles and efficiently assist the trapping of hole at the surface site, a first step necessary for visible emission. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.