Synthesis and photoluminescence properties of europium doped Mg–Al layered double hydroxides intercalated with MoO42−MoO42− anions

Novel fluorescent Eu-containing layered double hydroxides (Eu-LDHs) were prepared by direct ion-exchange of EuMgAl-NO3 LDHs precursors with MoO42−MoO42− anions. The samples were characterized by elemental analyses, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR), Raman spectra, photoluminescence spectroscopy. The results indicated that Eu3+ ions were likely incorporated into the hydrotalcite lattice and MoO42−MoO42− anions were successfully intercalated into interlayer region of the LDHs with the Mo/Al molar ratio close to 0.40. The luminescence properties were largely enhanced compared with the EuMgAl-NO3 LDHs precursors, which were attributed to the energy transfer between Eu3+ and MoO42−MoO42−.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Novel fluorescent Eu-containing layered double hydroxides were prepared. ► Eu3+ ions were incorporated into the hydrotalcite lattice. ► MoO42− anions were successfully intercalated into interlayer region of the LDHs. ► The luminescence properties were largely enhanced compared with precursors. ► Such behaviors can be attributed to energy transfer from MoO42− to Eu3+ centers.