Microwave synthesis of Zn:Mn:PbI₂ micro-size nanosheets and their characterizations

Herein, we are reporting, for the first time, a microwave-assisted synthesis of lead iodide (PbI₂) nanosheets (NSs) with codoping of Zn and Mn, confirmed by SEM/EDX. In the co-doping Mn concentration was kept at a constant level (i.e. 15 %) while Zn concentration was varied from 1 wt.% to 10 wt.%. The morphological analysis confirming presence of the dopant was done through SEM/EDX. The single phase and polytypic nature of NSs were established by XRD and FT-Raman examinations. Homogeneous doping of Mn and Zn in prepared PbI₂ NSs was confirmed by SEM mapping analysis. The dielectric and electrical properties were measured by preparing a compact pellet of NSs at 49820 Pa pressure. The dielectric constant and electrical conductivity were enhanced by Zn:Mn co-doping in PbI₂. The radiation activity was tested by cesium-137 (¹³⁷Cs) radioactive source and its increase resulting from the doping was observed. The enhanced properties suggest that the prepared NSs may be useful in electro-optic and radiation detection device applications.