Mie scattering effects from monodispersed ZnS nanospheres

Abstract

Transmission spectra of monodispersed particles exhibit pronounced resonance features from which particle properties can be deduced. ZnS powders were used as model materials since they can be synthesized by homogeneous precipitation with a narrow size distribution. The optical extinction spectra can be simulated using Mie scattering theory, and can be used as an in situ diagnostic tool for following the growth of particles during precipitation reactions. Using results of particle diameter measurements by other methods, information on the refractive index of the particles can be retrieved, indicating a highly porous internal structure of the spheres. Distinct features in the experimental and simulated spectra have been interpreted as to arise from circumference and diameter resonance effects in the particles. The simultaneous observation of these two effects allows one to estimate size and solid volume fraction from simple transmission spectra by application of an effective-medium model for the simulation parameters. The potential of application of Mie resonance effects for selective light screening or as pigments are discussed.