ABSTRACT
In this chapter, methods of synthesis of zinc, copper, cadmium, and iron sulfides are discussed. The greener methodology is proposed, procedures and reactions are presented, and applied equipment is described. Its characteristics are simple technology, avoidance of complicated and specific apparatus for synthesis, high productivity, and potential for further increase of the process scale in order to produce larger amounts of the material. The results of laboratory investigations and measurements are presented and discussed. In particular, the effect of synthesis conditions on the formed micro- and nanoparticles of sulfides and their performance was examined. The method was proved feasible for the removal of radionuclides potentially dangerous for environment, and its effectiveness was confirmed experimentally. Cadmium sulfide, apart from spherical particles, sometimes may form microscale flower-like structures, especially when microwave activation is applied. When pH or temperature is increased, as well as when microwave activation is applied, the obtained particles are larger. In addition, microwave activation causes increased efficiency of the synthesis, as it produces larger amount of metal sulfide.
