Synthesis and optical properties of CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ nanophosphors and a transparent CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ suspension

CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ nanophosphors were prepared from Ca-oleate (Eu, Na-oleate) and tetraoctylammonium (TOA)–MoO4 complexes by using a solvothermal reaction. The brightest red-emitting nanophosphor was Ca0.58MoO4:0.21Eu3+, 0.21Na+ prepared at 120 °C. The surfaces of the CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ nanophosphors were hydrophobic because of the use of oleylamine as surfactant. A stable scattering-free suspension of Ca0.58MoO4:0.21Eu3+, 0.21Na+ nanophosphor in toluene was also prepared for use in flexible and transparent displays.

► CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ nanophosphors were prepared using a solvothermal reaction.
► A phase transfer method was applied to the Ca-oleate and TOA–MoO4 complexes.
► The suspension of CaMoO4:Eu3+, Na+ nanophosphors can be used in transparent displays.