Synthesis and Luminescent Properties of Nanocrystalline (1 – х)ZrO2–хEr2O3 (х = 0.015–0.5) Solid Solutions

Abstract

Efficient method for the directed synthesis of ZrO2–Er2O3 luminescent material in nanocrystalline state has been developed. Monodisperse samples of cubic modification with particle size from 5 to 71 nm depending on synthesis conditions have been synthesized. Luminescence spectra due to 4I11/2 → 4I15/2 and 4I13/2 → 4I15/2 transitions of Er3+ ions have been registered upon their excitation by 532-nm radiation. Upconversion luminescence spectra due to 2H11/2, 4S3/2 → 4I15/2, 4F9/2 → 4I15/2 transitions have been registered on excitation to level 4I13/2 of Er3+ ions by 1550-nm radiation.