Nd-oxide-based nanoparticle-embedded transparent and photoluminescent composite films

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optoelectronics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Neodymium (Nd)-based materials are explored for photoluminescent (PL) applications.
• Controlling nanoparticle size is crucial for optimizing material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate Nd-based PL composites by embedding Nd compounds in transparent resin.
• To investigate the relationship between Nd-based particle size and PL properties.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Nd(iii)-based photoluminescent composite films using neodymium nitrate hexahydrate and urethane resin.
• Characterization of near-infrared (NIR) PL properties under UV-visible-near-infrared irradiation.
• Analysis of nanoparticle size using transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Main Results:

• The composite films exhibited NIR PL at 1.06 μm (⁴F_3/2 → ⁴I_11/2).
• Optimal PL intensity was observed with Nd-based particle sizes around 20 nm.
• UV irradiation exceeding 2 hours led to material degradation and reduced PL intensity.

Conclusions:

• Nd-based PL composites can be fabricated with tunable optical properties.
• Particle size significantly influences the PL intensity of these composites.
• UV stability is a critical factor for the long-term performance of these materials.