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Updated: Jun 6, 2026

UV-Vis Spectroscopic Characterization of Nanomaterials in Aqueous Media
Published on: October 25, 2021
Ultra small Gd(2)O(3) nanoparticles: Absorption and emission properties.
A T M Anishur Rahman1, Krasimir Vasilev, Peter Majewski
1School of AME and Mawson Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, SA-5095, Australia. Anishur.Rahman@postgrads.unisa.edu.au
We synthesized ultra-small gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) nanoparticles using citric acid. These nanoparticles exhibit unique UV absorption and induce near-infrared phosphorescence, offering potential applications in materials science.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
- Inorganic Chemistry
Background:
- Gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) nanoparticles are of interest for various applications.
- Controlling nanoparticle size and properties is crucial for their functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a facile synthesis method for ultra-small Gd2O3 nanoparticles.
- To investigate the influence of synthesis parameters on nanoparticle characteristics.
- To explore the optical properties and emission behavior of the synthesized nanoparticles.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of Gd2O3 nanoparticles using citric acid (CA) as a capping agent.
- Investigation of nanoparticle size dependence on the CA to Gd ratio.
- Characterization of UV absorption spectra.
- Analysis of near-infrared (NIR) emission properties.
Main Results:
- Successfully synthesized ultra-small (1-3 nm) Gd2O3 nanoparticles.
- Demonstrated control over nanoparticle size by adjusting the CA:Gd ratio.
- Observed characteristic UV absorption peaks at 312, 274, 253, and 228 nm.
- Showcased NIR phosphorescence induction from CA and ethylene glycol (EG) by the Gd2O3 nanoparticles.
Conclusions:
- A straightforward method for producing ultra-small Gd2O3 nanoparticles was established.
- The synthesized nanoparticles possess distinct optical absorption properties.
- The Gd2O3 nanoparticles can mediate NIR phosphorescence, suggesting potential for novel optical materials.
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