Solution processable MOF yellow phosphor with exceptionally high quantum efficiency

An important aspect in the research and development of white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs) is the discovery of highly efficient phosphors free of rare-earth (RE) elements. Herein we report the design and synthesis of a new type of RE-free, blue-excitable yellow phosphor, obtained by combining a strongly emissive molecular fluorophore with a bandgap modulating co-ligand, in a three-dimensional metal organic framework. [Zn6(btc)4(tppe)2(DMA)2] (btc = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate, tppe = 1,1,2,2-tetrakis(4-(pyridin-4-yl)phenyl)ethene, DMA = dimethylacetamide) crystallizes in a new structure type and emits bright yellow light when excited by a blue light source. It possesses the highest internal quantum yield among all RE-free, blue-excitable yellow phosphors reported to date, with a value as high as 90.7% (λex = 400 nm). In addition to its high internal quantum yield, the new yellow phosphor also demonstrates high external quantum yield, luminescent and moisture stability, solution processability, and color tunability, making it a promising material for use in phosphor conversion WLEDs.