Synthesis, characterization and luminescent property of metal-ion-doped terbium complexes of 2,3-Pyrazinedicarboxylate

► We prepared novel metal-ion-doped terbium complexes with pzdc2- ligands. ► The metal ions include alkaline earth metal ions and transition metal ions. ► Luminescence efficiency of Tb3+ is enhanced by doping alkaline earth metal ions. ► Luminescence efficiency of Tb3+ ions is enhanced by doping Cd2+ and Zn2+ ions. ► The complexes doped with Co2+ or Ni2+ ions exhibit luminescence quenching.