Synthesis of nano-sized EuF3 hollow spheres via one step chemical conversion

Monodisperse EuF3 hollow spheres with diameter of about 95 nm were firstly synthesized using Eu(OH)CO3 nanospheres as template. Control experiments indicated the morphology and crystal quality of the final products were greatly influenced by the synthesis parameters such as pH value, temperature and reactant concentration. Subsequently, a possible growth mechanism for the nano-sized hollow sphere was proposed and the photoluminescence (PL) properties of as-prepared EuF3 products were also intensively studied. Furthermore, this method could serve as a general route to prepare other rare earth fluorides hollow spheres.

► This method is simple and with well reproducibility.
► Moreover it expels the usage of template in constructing the hollow structure.
► This method could serve as a general route to prepare other rare earth fluorides hollow spheres.
► In addition, the nano-sized hollow spheres could cut down the usage of expensive rare earth element for lower producing cost.
► These well-crystallized EuF3 nano-sized hollow spheres could be used as a promising material to fabricate light-emitting device owing to the high efficiency and thermal stability.