Design of red/green emissive lanthanide activated nano-materials by supersonic and microwave co-irradiations

ZnSnO3:Eu3+ and Sr1−xCaxMoO4:Tb3+ nanocrystals with controlled shape have been assembled in the presence of two driving forces (supersonic microwave co-assistance, abbreviated as SMC) simultaneously in less than 60 min at very low temperature (80 °C). Scanning Electronic Microscope (SEM) images further supported the existence of cubic crystals and shuttle-like structures. More interestingly, Eu(III) ion has been encapsulated into zinc stannate for the first time and ZnSnO3:Eu3+ can exhibit red emissions excited by long wavelength (395 nm). Similarly, it was found that Sr1−xCaxMoO4:Tb3+ had striking green luminescence. The parameters to improve the optical properties have been studied in detail. This convenient approach may be applicable to construct other phosphors with well-defined crystalline structures.

► Supersonic microwave co-assistance method was used to prepare phosphors.
► The samples can exhibit green or red emissions.
► The morphology could be controllable.