Controlled synthesis of Gd2(WO4)3 microstructures and their tunable photoluminescent properties after Eu3+/Tb3+ doping

Abstract

We present a solution-phase synthesis to selectively produce Gd₂(WO₄)₃ microscale belts, stars and flowers under hydrothermal conditions. Different microstructures have been controllably obtained through adjusting the reaction temperature or adding surfactants. The phases and morphologies of the products have been well characterized by XRD, SEM and TEM. Possible formation mechanisms of the different Gd₂(WO₄)₃ microstructures were proposed based on the investigation of the growing process of these microstructures. After doping Eu³⁺ and Tb³⁺ inside these Gd₂(WO₄)₃ microstructures, strong and multi-color emission has been realized. Notably, tunable emissions and a warm-white color have been achieved in the Eu³⁺ and Tb³⁺ co-doped microstructures. These uniform microstructures are expected to find a broad range of applications in future color displays and light-emitting devices.