Size, phase-controlled synthesis, the nucleation and growth mechanisms of NaYF4:Yb/Er nanocrystals

The high-quality upconversion nanoparticles were synthesized by thermal decomposition metal trifluoroacetate, and the precursors were prepared via hydrothermal route. The effect of the molar ratio of NaF to RE (RE = Y, Yb, Er) on phase transition and size-control of the nanoparticles were studied.229