Nano and/or sub-micrometric particulated materials based on lanthanide ions with potential photonic applications

Abstract

This proposal addressed in the research & development field of luminescent materials doped with lanthanide ions, these ones will present required properties to the photonic devices development, as random laser, sensors, nanothermometry, LEDs, solar cells, and also cell labeling. The Nanomaterials and Luminecence Systems Group (NanoLum) at the Department of Chemistry of FFCLRP-USP has developed new luminescent nanostructured materials. Special attention was devoted to synthesis of nano and/or sub-micrometric particulated materials, with control of crystalline structure and reduction of defects. In addition, we will explore the luminescence properties of lanthanide ions; which are the result of well-known intraconfigurational 4fn transitions, as well to study emission processes by mechanisms as Downshifting, Upconversion e Downconversion. Luminescent composites with potential application in random Laser emission will be prepared using silica capillaries or silk fibroin (from the cocoons of the Bombyx mori) and nanometric ceramic powders based on lanthanide ions (e.g. Nd3+:YAG ou Nd3+:YAl3(BO3)4 (YAB)) or other phosphors (as the traditional ruby). Sensors and nanothermometry could be obtained from composites or nanoparticles doped with Er3+ or Eu3+ (e.g. Er3+:LiYF4 ou Er3+: YAB)). Besides, other luminescent materials will allow us to study and develop solar cell materials, LEDs and new phosphors to lighting at ultraviolet or visible or infrared. The academic purposes are not excluded from this project, which there are two scientific master projects and four PhD projects associated at this research. And of course, it will reinforce our collaboration with researchers from Brazil and abroad. (AU)