Hydrothermal synthesis of graphene–ZnS quantum dot nanocomposites

Abstract: ZnS nanodots highly dispersed on the surfaces of graphene sheets were successfully synthesized via an easy hydrothermal method by using Na2S as reducing agent as well as sulfide source. The reduction of graphite oxide (GO) to graphene was accompanied by the deposition of ZnS particles on the surface of graphene sheets. The results of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) demonstrate the efficient reduction of GO to graphene sheets. The morphology characterization of the sample shows a wrinkled paper-like structure of the graphene sheets decorated with ZnS nanoparticles. Moreover, photoluminescence (PL) measurement shows a smooth spectrum, indicating fewer defects in the composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]