Analysis of surface effect on luminescent properties of Eu3+ in YVO4 nanocrystals

In this Letter, 7F2 crystal field (CF) levels of surface Eu3+ in YVO4 nanocrystals are calculated employing a refined electrostatic point charge model, where surface states are simulated by point charges. Based on the theoretical 7F2 CF levels, emission spectra of YVO4: Eu3+ nanocrystals are assigned to Eu3+ under different local environments. and relaxation of selection rules by surface effect is discussed.