Synthesis of LaVO4: Dy3+ luminescent nanostructure and optimization of its performance as down-converter in dye-sensitized solar cells

► La(CH3CO)3 used as a new source of lanthanum to synthesis tetragonal LaVO4:Dy3+ nanoparticles. ► Optimized Dy3+ concentration and annealing temperature were found for the first time. ► Strong enhancement in PL emission intensity was achieved for 0-0.08 mmol Dy3+ concentration and annealed at 500 °C. ► An increase of 6.7% in current density of solar cells coated with LaVO4:Dy3+. Luminescent film was achieved.