Fabrication and surface hydrophobic modification of Y2O3:Eu3+ phosphors

Abstract

Among the luminescent materials, Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ particles have the advantages of strong fluorescence emission, stable physical and chemical properties, and low toxicity. They are widely used in photoelectric displays, chemical fiber media, and other technological fields. However, due to the presence of a large number of hydroxyl groups on its surface, Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ is strongly hydrophilic but poorly oleophilic, and because of that, it cannot be used in some special fields. In this research, hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) was used to modify the surface of the Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ phosphor, and the experimental results indicate that the Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ phosphor modified by HDTMS exhibits good hydrophobic and oleophilic properties. Moreover, its crystal structure does not change, and its fluorescence remains good. Additionally, the luminescence properties of the Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ phosphor modified by HDTMS are not greatly affected. This study can provide a reference for the hydrophobic and oleophilic Y₂O₃:Eu³⁺ phosphor preparation and its application in organic media.