Synthesis and enhancement luminescence of 3D NaReF4 (Re = Eu, Sm) hierarchical microstructures assembled by nanosheets

Abstract

A one-step hydrothermal strategy has been developed to fabricate 3D flower-like hierarchical microstructures assembled by hexagonal NaReF₄ nanosheets. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) techniques. It was found that oxalic acids and the pH value have great effects on the shape of the final product. A possible formation mechanism has been proposed. Photoluminescence (PL) displays that the emission intensity of the 3D flower-like NaReF₄ hierarchical microstructures was higher than that of NaReF₄ oblate structures. These 3D flower-like NaReF₄ hierarchical microstructures may have potential applications in sensors, optics, and visible emitting devices.