Eu2O3-functionalized ZnO/palygorskite

Abstract

Eu₂O₃-functionalized ZnO/palygorskite was synthesized in a two-step method, and was thoroughly characterized. Energy was transferred from Eu₂O₃ to ZnO, but not from ZnO to Eu₂O₃, in contrast to literature reports. The interaction between Eu₂O₃ and ZnO directly influenced the energy transfer process. Eu₂O₃ was sporadically loaded on the ZnO surface, rather than doped in the ZnO crystal lattice as Eu³⁺ or assembled as a Eu₂O₃–ZnO core–shell structure as is usually reported. Nanoparticle surface interactions and the ZnO morphology were possible factors affecting energy transfer. Particle-to-particle contact between Eu₂O₃ and ZnO benefited the energy transfer from Eu₂O₃ to ZnO. Eu₂O₃ acted as an ‘energy package’, first absorbing then transferring energy to ZnO. This process increased the number of excited carriers within ZnO, thus enhancing the luminescence and photocatalysis properties.