Photophysical properties and Judd-Ofelt analysis of a europium complex with 5-amino-1,10-phenanthroline

A europium (III) complex with 5-amino-1,10-phenanthroline and 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone, Eu(TTA)3(phenNH2), was synthesized. Its photophysical properties were studied in detail using UV, luminescence spectra and lifetime measurements. The complex shows a long 5D0 lifetime (588 μs) and a remarkable luminescence quantum yield (40.95%) at room temperature, which makes it not only a promising light-conversion molecular device but also an excellent luminescent polymer precursor. Moreover, the applicability of the well-known Judd-Ofelt theory to the emissive properties of Eu3+ complexes is also investigated.

► A Eu(III) complex with 5-amino-1,10-phenanthroline and 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone.
► Photophysical properties of the complex were studied.
► The Judd-Ofelt theory was used to analyze the luminescence spectra of the complex.