Preparation of PrxZn1 − xO nanopowder with UV-visible light response

We prepared PrxZn1 − xO nanopowder using a combustion method. The sample was characterized by XRD, TEM, XPS, UV-visible and PL spectroscopy. The prepared PrxZn1 − xO nanopowder had a good photon absorption performance in the range of 200-800 nm wavelength. Moreover, the 4f2 electronic configuration of trivalent Pr3+ ions was revealed from the diffuse reflectance spectra. The single crystalline particle size was about 20-70 nm based on the TEM observation. A quantum size effect of the PrxZn1 − xO nanopowder was also noted.