Yb3+-sensitized upconversion and downshifting luminescence in Nd3+ ions through energy migration†
Abstract
A core–shell–shell nanostructure composed of NaGdF4:Yb/Tm@NaGdF4:Nd@NaYF4 is developed to realize Yb3+-sensitized upconversion and downshifting luminescence in Nd3+ ions. The unusual photon conversion property stems from a gadolinium sublattice mediated Yb3+ → Tm3+ → Gd3+ → Nd3+ energy transfer pathway. The energy transfer processes are investigated by varying the dopant concentration and distribution, in conjunction with time decay measurements.
- This article is part of the themed collection: Metal Complexes and Nanoparticles for Energy Upconversion