[Morphology and Spectral Properties Study of LaCeF3:Tb Microcrystalline]

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Context:

• Lanthanum cerium fluoride (LaCeF3) doped with terbium (Tb) is a promising material for luminescence applications.
• Exploring novel synthesis methods for LaCeF3:Tb microcrystals is crucial for optimizing their properties.
• The ultrasonic-assisted solvothermal method for LaCeF3:Tb synthesis is underexplored.

Purpose:

• To synthesize LaCeF3:Tb microcrystalline using microemulsion, oleic acid-assisted solvothermal, and ultrasonic-assisted solvothermal methods.
• To characterize the crystal phase, morphology, and luminescence properties of the synthesized LaCeF3:Tb microcrystals.
• To investigate the energy transfer mechanism between Ce and Tb ions and determine the critical doping concentration of Tb.

Summary:

• LaCeF3:Tb microcrystals were successfully synthesized via three methods, with the ultrasonic-assisted solvothermal method being novel.
• X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed good crystallinity, matching the hexagonal LaCeF3 phase.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed uniform size and morphology.
• Photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy showed strong green emission under 250 nm excitation, attributed to Tb³⁺ transitions (⁵D₄→⁷F J).
• Spectral studies confirmed Ce-Tb energy transfer and critical doping concentration was calculated for each method.

Impact:

• Provides a novel and efficient synthesis route (ultrasonic-assisted solvothermal) for LaCeF3:Tb microcrystals.
• Offers detailed characterization of structural and luminescent properties, aiding material design.
• Contributes to understanding energy transfer mechanisms in doped fluoride materials.
• The findings can guide the development of new phosphors for lighting and display technologies.