Eu2O3-functionalized ZnO/palygorskite

Abstract

Eu2O3-functionalized ZnO/palygorskite was synthesized in a two-step method, and was thoroughly characterized. Energy was transferred from Eu2O3 to ZnO, but not from ZnO to Eu2O3, in contrast to literature reports. The interaction between Eu2O3 and ZnO directly influenced the energy transfer process. Eu2O3 was sporadically loaded on the ZnO surface, rather than doped in the ZnO crystal lattice as Eu3+ or assembled as a Eu2O3–ZnO core–shell structure as is usually reported. Nanoparticle surface interactions and the ZnO morphology were possible factors affecting energy transfer. Particle-to-particle contact between Eu2O3 and ZnO benefited the energy transfer from Eu2O3 to ZnO. Eu2O3 acted as an ‘energy package’, first absorbing then transferring energy to ZnO. This process increased the number of excited carriers within ZnO, thus enhancing the luminescence and photocatalysis properties.