| Abstract
| - The synthesis of CdS/ZnS core/shell nanorods was achieved via a three-step method involving solvothermalpreparation of CdS nanorods and then a soft chemical process for functionalization of the CdS surface andsubsequent ZnS shell growth. Citric acid was used as the surface functionalizing agent, which ensured thegrowth of a uniform ZnS shell covering the nanorod surface. The carboxyl groups of citric acid trapped onthe surfaces of CdS nanorods with an outward orientation of the -OH functional groups made the surfaces ofthe nanorods negatively charged, directed the Zn2+ ions to attach to the -OH ions, and helped the formationof a uniform ZnS shell following the addition of a sulfur source. The core/shell nanostructure was confirmedby X-ray study, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The photoluminescenceefficiencies and electrical response of the CdS/ZnS core/shell nanorods were significantly enhanced as comparedto those of the uncoated CdS nanorods, owing to the effective passivation of the surface electronic states ofthe CdS cores by the ZnS shell. The present synthesis provides a rational approach to the design of novelcore/shell nanomaterials with appealing applications in optoelectronic devices.
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