Zinc sulfide: from supertetrahedral atomically precise clusters to quantum dots

In this comprehensive review, we have introduced two distinct types of multinuclear zinc sulfide superpolyhedral molecular clusters and zinc sulfide quantum dots. Two distinct categories of hyper polyhedral zinc sulfide clusters are identified: Zn10, categorized under T3 symmetry, and Zn8, classified under P1 symmetry. Both Zn10 and Zn8 clusters feature not only μ₁-S and μ₂-S species, which are attached to ligands, but also μ₃-S and μ₄-S species that remain unattached to ligands. Furthermore, the zinc and sulfur atoms within these cluster molecules possess the versatility to be substituted by alternative cations or anions, leading to the formation of corresponding derivatives. By comparing synthetic methodologies, structural attributes, and potential applications of the multinuclear zinc sulfide superpolyhedral molecular clusters and zinc sulfide quantum dots, we have delved into the intricate relationship between zinc sulfide quantum dots and these two classes of zinc sulfide clusters, offering a fresh perspective. From a synthetic standpoint, the preparation of zinc sulfide quantum dots often shares similarities with the synthesis of Zn10 clusters, while some methods also mirror the synthesis of Zn8 clusters utilizing reactors. Quantum dots typically exhibit larger sizes compared to cluster molecules, and their growth is characterized by rapid and continuous expansion, accompanied by a continuous red-shift of the edge band peaks in their UV-vis absorption spectra. In contrast, cluster molecules display discrete and heterogeneous growth patterns, with abrupt transitions from one discrete size to another larger discrete size, mirrored by individual sharp peaks in their UV-vis absorption spectra. Regarding applications, both entities share similar domains of utilization, albeit with distinct underlying mechanisms. By elucidating these differences and similarities, we aim to foster further advancements in the field of zinc sulfide-based materials.