Fluorescence lifetime modification in Eu:Lu2O3 nanoparticles in the presence of silver nanoparticles

Europium-doped lutetium-oxide (Eu:Lu2O3) nanoparticles were synthesized using a combustion technique and a co-precipitation technique, and their properties were compared. Surface modification utilizing small silane molecules and long chain polymers were explored to de-agglomerate and disperse the particles. Structural, morphological and optical properties were characterized with X-ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and laser spectroscopy respectively to evaluate these materials. The luminescent behaviors were compared between the pristine and modified Eu:Lu2O3 nanoparticles to study the influence of surface ligands on emission properties. Subsequently, the Eu:Lu2O3 nanoparticles were placed on top of a thin film consisting of silver nanoparticles and combined with silver nanoparticles and dispersed in a polymer matrix. The presence of the silver nanoparticles led to a reduction of the fluorescence lifetime of 12–14%.