Fast-Response Metal–Semiconductor–Metal Junction Ultraviolet Photodetector Based on ZnS:Mn Nanorod Networks via a Cost-Effective Method

[Image: see text] In this work, Mn(2+)-doped ZnS nanorods were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method. The morphology, structure, and composition of the as-prepared samples were investigated. The temperature-dependent photoluminescence of ZnS:Mn nanorods was analyzed, and the corresponding activation energies were calculated by using a simple two-step rate equation. Mn(2+)-related orange emission ((4)T(1) → (6)A(1)) demonstrates high stability and is comparatively less affected by the temperature variations than the defect-related emission. A metal–semiconductor–metal junction ultraviolet photodetector based on the nanorod networks has been fabricated by a cost-effective method. The device exhibits visible blindness, superior ultraviolet photodetection with a responsivity of 1.62 A/W, and significantly fast photodetection response with the rise and decay times of 12 and 25 ms, respectively.