The functionalized nanomaterials, including II-VI semiconductors, have many interesting properties and applications, generally superior to those of pristine nanomaterials. Cadmium sulfide nanoparticles functionalized with mercaptoacetate were prepared by one-pot synthesis, using three strategies. The structure and morphology of the obtained nanopowders were studied by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The optical properties were investigated by UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and the band gap energy values based on Tauc equation were determined. The catalytic activity of functionalized cadmium sulfide nanopowders, evaluated in the degradation of an azoic dye, was correlated with the synthesis route, particle size, photoluminescence and specific surface area. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.