Preparation and Characterization of Europium-Doped Nanohydroxyapatite (Eu-nHA) Fluorescent Agent

A europium (Eu)-doped nanohydroxyapatite (Eu-nHA) photoluminescent material was synthesized through a wet chemical precipitation method. The prepared Eu-nHA nanomaterial was then characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), spectral analysis of elements, spectrofluorometry and luminescence test. Results show that the Eu-nHA nanoparticles exhibit a tiny rod-like morphology with the particle size of 5∼15 nm (width) × 15∼30 nm (length). Besides, the nano-crystal pattern of Eu-nHA and successful doping of Eu ions into nHA have also been revealed. Meanwhile, the present study shows that the Eu-nHA agent actually displays functional red fluorescence under proper ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. It is evident that 5D0-7F1 and 5D0-7F2 transition of Eu ions play key roles in the photoluminescence activity. In conclusion, the synthesized Eu-nHA agent holds promise as a novel nano-fluorescence agent for biomedical applications.