Unraveling Mechanoluminescent Mechanisms in Doped CaZnOS Materials: Co‐Mediation of Trap‐Controlled and Non‐Trap‐Controlled Processes

Abstract

AbstractDoped CaZnOS materials show great potential for mechanoluminescence (ML) applications spanning the ultraviolet‐visible‐near infrared (UV–vis–NIR) range. However, conflicting reports regarding the generation and reproducibility of ML hinder the understanding and practical utilization of these materials. To address this issue, a comprehensive characterization strategy combining NIR laser‐assisted de‐trapping, UV irradiation‐induced trap‐filling, in situ mechanical stimulation, and continuous ML recording is proposed. Herein, the ML behaviors of four representative doped CaZnOS materials (Mn2+, Bi3+, Er3+, and Ce3+) are investigated using this approach. The results reveal that de‐trapped materials exhibit non‐trap‐controlled ML, wherein ML intensity gradually weakens under successive mechanical stimuli without self‐recovery. In contrast, trap‐filled materials demonstrate both trap‐controlled ML and non‐trap‐controlled ML, with the former predominantly contributing to the overall ML intensity. Notably, trap‐controlled ML shows only partial recovery after trap filling. The non‐trap‐controlled ML is attributed to plastic ML and destructive ML phenomena, while explaining trap‐controlled ML through the carrier de‐trapping model. These results not only clarify conflicting reports but also provide clear insights into the ML properties and mechanisms of CaZnOS‐based materials, facilitating advancements in practical applications. Furthermore, the developed characterization strategy is expected to serve as a valuable reference for establishing standardized protocols to evaluate ML performance.