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Low-energy Cathodoluminescence for OxyNitride Phosphors
Published on: November 15, 2016
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Chromium-activated phosphors: from theory to applications.
Shengqiang Liu1,2, Leipeng Li1,3, Bing Chen1,4
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China. fwang24@cityu.edu.hk.
Chemical Society Reviews
|December 18, 2025
Summary
Chromium-activated phosphors offer tunable near-infrared (NIR) luminescence for lighting and bioimaging. This review details their crystal field theory, design, preparation, and applications, guiding future phosphor development.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Solid-State Chemistry
- Luminescence
Background:
- Chromium-activated phosphors are crucial for near-infrared (NIR) lighting and in vivo bioimaging.
- The 3d orbital transitions in chromium ions exhibit tunable luminescence across NIR-I and NIR-II spectral regions, influenced by their crystal environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review recent advancements in chromium-activated phosphors.
- To explore the relationship between local coordination environments and optical properties.
- To provide theoretical and experimental guidance for refining chromium-activated phosphors.
Main Methods:
- Review of phenomenological crystal field theories.
- Analysis of design principles and materials preparation methodologies.
- Investigation of correlations between local coordination and optical properties (spectral profile, quantum efficiency, thermal stability, persistent luminescence, mechanoluminescence).
Main Results:
- Demonstrated remarkable luminescence tunability from NIR-I to NIR-II regions.
- Established links between crystal field effects, coordination geometry, and luminescence characteristics.
- Highlighted the versatility of these phosphors for optical studies and device applications.
Conclusions:
- Chromium-activated phosphors are versatile materials with significant potential in optics and device applications.
- Future research should focus on controlling crystal size and energy level coupling for extended optical tuning.
- Further refinement requires a deep understanding of structure-property relationships.
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