Mn2+ ions incorporated into ZnSxSe1-x colloidal quantum dots: controlling size and composition of nanoalloys and regulating magnetic dipolar interactions

A facile synthesis method is introduced how to prepare magnetically active ultraviolet emitting manganese ions incorporated into ZnSxSe1-x colloidal quantum dot (nanoalloy) at 110 degrees C in aqueous solutions. The reaction time is the main factor to control the hydrodynamic size from 3 to 10 nm and the precursor ratio is significant to tune the alloy composition. ZnS shell layer on the ZnSxSe1-x core was grown to passivate environmental effects. The nanoalloy has ultraviolet emission at 380 nm having a lifetime of 80 ns and 7% quantum yield. The incorporation of Mn2+ ions into the nanoalloys induced magnetic activity but did not modify the structure and photophysical properties of the nanoalloys. Colloidal and powdery samples were prepared and analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. In the colloidal dispersions, EPR spectra showed hyperfine line splitting regardless of the Mn2+ ion fractions, up to 6%, indicating that Mn2+ ions incorporated into the nanoalloys were isolated. EPR signals of the powdery samples were broadened when the fraction of Mn2+ ions was higher than 0.1%. The EPR spectra were simulated to reveal the locations and interactions of Mn2+ ions. The simulations suggest that the Mn2+ ions are located on the nanoalloy surfaces. These findings infer that the magnetic dipolar interactions are regulated by the initial mole ratio of Mn/Zn and the physical state of the nanoalloys adjusted by preparation methods.

Automated summary

The study introduces a facile method for preparing magnetically active ultraviolet emitting manganese ions incorporated ZnSxSe1-x colloidal quantum dots (nanoalloys) in aqueous solutions, emphasizing the main factors influencing alloy composition and size. The research also reveals that the incorporation of Mn2+ ions into the nanoalloys can induce magnetic activity without altering their structure and photophysical properties.