Photoluminescence properties and quantum size effect of ZnO nanoparticles confined inside a faujasite X zeolite matrix

ZnO nanoparticles were grown inside a faujasite matrix by wet chemistry method. The structural and textural results by N2 adsorption, X-ray diffraction, 29Si and 27Al solid state NMR indicated successful incorporation of ZnO nanoparticles inside supercages of zeolite. After the incorporation, a slight structural symmetry change of the zeolite occurred. The photoluminescence of ZnO nanoparticles in zeolite matrix was studied by exciting the sample with an ArF laser (193 nm). A strong blue-shift of the emission band of ZnO, suggesting a strong quantum size effect, is observed. It is also revealed an improved stability of excitons when ZnO nanoparticles are confined within a zeolite matrix.