Praseodymium doped nanocrystals and nanocomposites for application in white light sources

Abstract

Abstract In this work we report the results of our investigations on luminescence properties in the visible spectral range of composite materials based on polymer matrices doped with nano-sized crystals activated by Pr3+ ions. In particular, we investigated the visible emission of YF3, LaAlO3, Al2O3 and Y2O3 nanopowders activated with Pr3+ ions, as well as PMMA-based composites doped with particles of the best luminescent properties. The basic structural characterization of the developed samples was performed, followed by versatile optical characterization, focused on measurements and analysis of excitation and luminescence spectra and fluorescence dynamics profiles. The comparison of spectroscopic features of developed materials enabled discussion of the influence of crystalline and polymer environment on luminescent properties of resulting materials as well as consideration of potential applicability of developed materials in white light emitters.