Solvothermal synthesis and upconversion luminescence of ultra-small Sc2O3: Yb, Er nanoparticles

Monodisperse sub-10 nm Sc 2 O 3 : Yb, Er upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) were firstly synthesized via solvothermal method in three-neck round-bottom flask. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) shows that the prepared UCNPs possess cubic structure. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows that sample has monodisperse spheroid morphology with high crystallinity . The average size of spheroid UCNPs could be controllable manipulated as small as 3 nm. Furthermore, the sample exhibits stronger red and green upconversion luminescence (UCL) than reported Sc 2 O 3 : Yb, Er nanostructure by biphasic solvothermal method. The Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and decay curve reveal that ultra-small Sc 2 O 3 : Yb, Er UCNPs exhibit the reduced surface groups and long decay time of Er 3+ ions. The results indicate Sc 2 O 3 : Yb, Er UCNPs is a probable oxide material with small size and intense UCL for biological applications.