Mechanochemical synthesis of metal sulphide nanoparticles

The synthesis of ZnS, CdS and Ce2S3 nanoparticles by mechanochemical reaction has been reviewed. During mechanical milling, solid-state displacement reactions between the respective metal chloride and alkali sulphide or alkaline earth sulphide were induced in a steady-state manner, leading to the formation of metal sulphide nanoparticles. A simple washing process to remove the chloride by-product yielded separated particles of ZnS, CdS and Ce2S3 of similar to 8 nm, similar to 4 nm and similar to 20 nm, respectively. The resulting particles and crystallite sizes were dependent on the milling conditions, starting materials and the presence of a diluent. Structural change with decreasing particle size was observed for CdS and Ce2S3. (C) 1999 Acta Metallurgica Inc.