Luminescence enhancement due to energy transfer in ZnO nanoparticles and Eu3 + ions co-doped silica

SiO2 thin films co-doped with ZnO nanoparticles and Eu3 + ions were prepared by sol–gel method. The formation of nano-sized ZnO particles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction patterns and transmission electron microscopy. The characteristic emission bands from Eu3 + ions can be observed at room temperature and the luminescence intensity is increased obviously by introducing ZnO nanoparticles into Eu3 +-doped silica films. The integrated luminescence intensity is influenced by the concentration and size of ZnO particles, suggesting effective energy transfer from nano-sized ZnO to Eu3 + ions. It is argued that the efficient luminescence enhancement occurs under the suitable Zn2 + amount and annealing temperature.

► In-situ formation of nano-sized ZnO particles in amorphous SiO2. ► Photoluminescence enhancements of Eu3 + ions by introduction of ZnO nanoparticles. ► The analysis of energy transfer process from ZnO nanoparticles to Eu3 + ions.