Hydrothermal preparation and luminescence of LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles

LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles were prepared by a simple hydrothermal process at low temperature and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence spectrum. Well-dispersed nanoparticles with an average size of 30 nm and a hexagonal shape were obtained. The influences of reaction temperature and time on the preparation and luminescence of LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles were investigated. Luminescent quenching occurred at a much higher concentration (∼25 mol%) and stronger luminescent intensity than in bulk LaF3:Eu3+. Fluorescence intensity of the LaF3:Eu3+ nanoparticles varied remarkably with calcination temperatures. It was found that samples without any further calcinations can emit quite strong fluorescence.