Synthesis and characterization of new LnxSb2−xSe3 (Ln: Yb3+, Er3+) nanoflowers and their physical properties

New LnxSb2−xSe3 (Ln: Yb3+, Er3) based nanomaterials were synthesized by a co-reduction method. Powder XRD patterns indicate that the LnxSb2−xSe3crystals (Ln=Yb3+, Er3+, x=0.00-0.12) are isostructural with Sb2Se3. The cell parameters b and c decrease for Ln=Er3+ and Yb3+ upon increasing the dopant content (x), while a increases. SEM images show that doping of the lanthanide ions in the lattice of Sb2Se3 generally results in nanoflowers. UV-vis absorption and emission spectroscopy reveals mainly electronic transitions of the Ln3+ ions in case of Yb3+ doped nanomaterials. Emission spectra of doped materials, in addition to the characteristic red emission peaks of Sb2Se3, show additional emission bands centered at 955 nm, originating from the 2F7/2→2F5/2 transition (f-f transitions) of the Yb3+ ions. DSC curves indicate that Sb2Se3 has the highest thermal stability. The temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity of doped-Sb2Se3 with Yb3+ and Er3+ was studied.