Pr3+/Yb3+ co-doped beta-phase NaYF4 microprisms: controlled synthesis and upconversion luminescence

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Upconversion luminescence materials are crucial for various optical applications.
• Rare-earth doped fluoride nanocrystals offer unique luminescent properties.
• Controlling crystal size and morphology is key to optimizing upconversion efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize Pr3+/Yb3+ co-doped hexagonal NaYF4 microprisms.
• To investigate the upconversion fluorescence properties of the synthesized materials.
• To explore the influence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on crystal size and morphology.

Main Methods:

• Hydrothermal synthesis method.
• Co-doping of NaYF4 with Pr3+ and Yb3+ ions.
• Use of EDTA as a capping agent to control crystal size.
• Characterization using spectroscopic techniques and X-ray diffraction (XRD).

Main Results:

• Successfully synthesized Pr3+/Yb3+ co-doped hexagonal NaYF4 microprisms.
• Observed bright upconverted fluorescence emission upon excitation with a 976.4 nm infrared laser.
• Identified emission originating from various electronic transitions of Pr3+ ions.
• Demonstrated control over microcrystal size using EDTA.

Conclusions:

• The synthesized NaYF4:Yb3+/Pr3+ microprisms exhibit efficient upconversion luminescence.
• EDTA plays a significant role in controlling the size of the microcrystals.
• The study provides insights into the mechanisms of upconversion fluorescence and concentration dependence in these materials.