A novel synthesis method of ZnS:Cu aqueous colloid was studied

in which that the Cu

+

was induced to ZnS matrix by sulfurous ligands-thoiurea and thiosulfate. ZnS:Cu colloids were synthesized and the optical properties were studied by absorption spectra

emission spectra and excitation spectra. According to Brus Effective Mass Approximation

the average diameter of ZnS nanoparticles is about 4nm. Excited at about 320nm

a green emission band can be observed

which corresponds to luminescence from copper ions. Cu

+

should have entered the lattice of ZnS nanocrystals. Excitation spectra show that the emissions of ZnS:Cu and ZnS colloid have the same luminescent mechanism. In the synthesis route

thiourea and thiosulfate act as ligands and surfactant simultaneously

and their functions can be summarized as Cu

+

-stabilizing effect

solubility-leveling effect and surface-protecting effect.