Sensitized emission in Ln(3+)-doped TiO2 semiconductor nanoparticles.

Abstract

The doping of lanthanide ions in semiconductor TiO2 nanoparticles is studied. The presence of the TiO2 absorption band in the excitation spectrum of the lanthanide (see graphic; excitation and emission) proves the existence of energy transfer from the host material to the lanthanide ion. Energy transfer to several lanthanide ions occurs, including to Er3+, Nd3+, Yb3+, and Eu3+.