Combustion synthesis and characterization of Er3+-doped and Er3+, Yb3+-codoped YVO4 nanophosphors oriented for luminescent biolabeling applications

Abstract

YVO4:Er3+ and YVO4:Er3+, Yb3+ nanomaterials were prepared via combustion synthesis using urea as fuel and metal nitrates as precursor. The morphology and the structure of the prepared samples were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The average size of the prepared materials ranged from 20 to 30 nm in diameter. The effects of Er3+ and Yb3+ doping concentrations on structure and optical properties have been investigated. Optical properties of YVO4:Er3+ and YVO 4:Er3+, Yb3+ nanoparticles were measured by photoluminescent excitation and emission spectroscopies. For the YVO 4:Er3+ and YVO4:Er3+, Yb3+ samples, two strong green emissions centered at 524 and 552 nm are found, corresponding to the 2H11/2- 4I15/2 and 4S11/2- 4I15/2 transitions of Er3+ ions, respectively. Upconversion emission in the green region of the YVO 4:Er3+ nanoparticles under 980 nm excitation was also investigated. Strong emission from these materials is promising for luminescent biolabeling applications. © 2011 Vietnam Academy of Science & Technology.