Plate-like CuS nanoparticles were prepared by a facile aqueous solution method using Radix Puerariae extract. The as-synthesized samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The CuS films showed strong absorbance in the NIR region and moderate visible transmittance when mixed with PVA. Plate-like CuS nanoparticles were thus found to display great potential as NIR-shielding materials and good photo thermal efficiency. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.