The nanostructured ZnS of cubic nanocorals and open-benzene ring has been synthesized by the biomolecule-assisted method in mixture of supercritical carbon dioxide and water as reaction medium at 150 degrees C and 28 MPa. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, photoluminescence spectrum of sample were characterized. The sodium tripoly phosphate and CO(2) as well as high-pressure condition might be the key factors for formation of the particular morphologies and nanostructures of ZnS. This synthesis method could be employed for preparation of other semiconductor nanomaterials. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.