Technological aspects for Tb3+-doped luminescent sol–gel nanomaterials

Luminescent properties of silica sol–gel nanomaterials doped with Tb3+ ions were studied and the results are presented. Compositions of the studied materials were varied while the terbium ions concentration was kept constant. Some technological parameters were analyzed and their pronounced effect on the photoluminescence properties is observed. Spectroscopic parameters of Tb3+ ions were determined basing on excitation and emission measurements as well as on luminescence decay analysis before and after heat treatment process. The registered emission bands in the visible spectral range correspond to the 5D4→7FJ (J=3−6) transitions of Tb3+ ions. Intensities of the emission bands and luminescence decay curves of Tb3+ ions depend on the excitation wavelength. Also, enhancement of the emission bands intensities and a significant increase of luminescence lifetime for the 5D4 excited state of Tb3+ ions after heat treatment process was observed. The structure of obtained glasses was examined using X-ray diffraction (XRD), as well as FT-IR and Raman spectroscopic techniques. The obtained results indicate the incorporation of Tb3+ ions into nanocrystalline phase during ceramization process.