Structural, optical, and photocatalytic activity of ZnS:Er nanoparticles

ZnS and Er (2 at%) doped ZnS nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized through co-precipitation process. EDAX analysis confirmed that the presence of Er (III) ions in the prepared sample with an anticipated stoichiometry. TEM analyses displayed that the prepared NPs showed near spheroid shapes with an average size ranging from 4.8 to 5.2 nm. XRD measurements confirmed the authentic incorporation of Er (III) ions in the ZnS lattice. DRS measurements certified that Er (III) doping declines the ZnS bandgap from 3.72 to 3.56 eV. Magnetic measurements revealed that the Er-doped ZnS NPs displayed soft ferromagnetism and became better at higher doping concentrations. The Er (2 at%) doped ZnS NPs exhibited a higher rhodamine B dye degradation rate than the ZnS. Hence, the Er doped ZnS NPs are promising materials for dye degradation and optoelectronics.