Structure evolution and photoluminescence properties of ZrO2:Eu3+ nanocrystals

ZrO2 nanocrystals were synthesized by combustion process at a relatively low temperature. Upon introducing calcium ions into the host, the monoclinic to tetragonal and cubic transformation of ZrO2 were observed. To further probe the structural evolution of ZrO2 nanocrystals, the optical properties of Eu3+ in the ZrO2 nanocrystals were investigated.