RE3+ (RE = Ce3+, Tb3+) doped BaGdF5 nanocrystals: Synthesis, optical and magnetic properties, and energy transfer

Through a citric acid assisted hydrothermal method, the RE3+ (RE3+ = Ce3+, Tb3+) doped cubic phase BaGdF5 nanocrystals with a sphere-like morphology and an average size of 30 nm have been synthesized. The samples show paramagnetic properties at 300 K. The photoluminescence spectra of the obtained samples suggest that the existence of Ce3+ can dramatically enhance the emission intensity of Tb3+ due to an efficient energy transfer from Ce3+ to Tb3+. The energy transfer efficiency from Ce3+ to Tb3+, the critical energy transfer distance between Ce3+ and Tb3+, and the energy transfer mechanism of Ce3+–Tb3+ are discussed based on the experimental data and the theoretical analysis.

Graphical abstractPL emission spectra of BaGd0.8−xCe0.2TbxF5. Insets are emission intensities of Ce3+ and Tb3+ depending on the content (x) of Tb3+.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The samples were synthesized by a hydrothermal method. ► The emission intensity of Tb3+ was greatly enhanced. ► The energy transfer efficiency was evaluated. ► The average separation and the critical energy transfer distance were calculated. ► The energy transfer mechanism of Ce3+–Tb3+ was discussed and analyzed.