Effects of sulfidation on the optoelectronic properties of hydrothermally synthesized ZnO nanowires

Zinc sulfide is an important material for wide range of applications. In this study, we have developed an environmentally friendly and direct method for converting the outer shells of zinc oxide nanowires into zinc sulfide. Such method can effectively replace traditionally used H2S which is toxic. It was found that the conversion of ZnO into ZnS take place below melting point of sulfur at around 400 °C. It was also found oxygen play an important role in sulfidation as it can only occur through O out diffusion.