Characterizations and properties of Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 prepared via a facile self-propagating combustion method

Abstract

ZnWO 4 and Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 were prepared for the first time via a facile self-propagating combustion method. The structure, morphology and luminescence of the as-prepared ZnWO 4 and Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 were characterized. The photoluminescent property of Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 complexes indicated an energy transfer from WO 4 2− groups to Eu 3+ and suggested an effective doping of Eu 3+ into the lattice of ZnWO 4. The photocatalytic activity of ZnWO 4 and Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 was investigated by the photodegradation of rhodamine B (RhB). Eu 3+-doped ZnWO 4 showed enhanced photocatalytic activity in the photodegradation of RhB.