High-Performance X-Ray Detection and Optical Information Storage via Dual-Mode Luminescent Modulation in...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Solid-State Chemistry
• Luminescence

Background:

• Lanthanide-doped materials are crucial for X-ray detection, imaging, and anti-counterfeiting.
• Existing rare-earth luminescent materials often lack multi-modal responses, limiting complex applications.
• Developing novel phosphors with enhanced functionalities is essential for advanced optical and X-ray technologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel Na3KMg7(PO4)6:Eu phosphor.
• To investigate the dual-mode luminescence (radio-photoluminescence and photochromism) of the synthesized material.
• To evaluate its potential for advanced X-ray detection, imaging, and information encryption.

Main Methods:

• High-temperature solid-state synthesis of Na3KMg7(PO4)6:Eu phosphor.
• X-ray irradiation to induce ion reduction and multi-color luminescence (radio-photoluminescence).
• Investigation of photochromic properties, including color change, bleaching, and recovery under UV light and thermal stimulation.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of Na3KMg7(PO4)6:Eu phosphor via a simple solid-state method.
• Observation of dual luminescence from Eu2+ and Eu3+ ions, demonstrating radio-photoluminescence.
• Achieved a good linear X-ray response (R2 = 0.9897) and stable signal storage (>50 days) up to 200 Gy.
• Exhibited photochromism (white to brown) upon X-ray irradiation with efficient UV/thermal recovery.
• Demonstrated stable signal storage and recovery capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The Na3KMg7(PO4)6:Eu phosphor exhibits promising dual-mode functionalities, combining radio-photoluminescence and photochromism.
• This material offers a novel strategy for dual-mode X-ray detection and imaging.
• Potential applications include advanced anti-counterfeiting, optical information storage, and encryption.