Shape controlled synthesis and luminescence properties of ZnO: Eu³⁺ nanostructures

Abstract

We demonstrated simple solution based methods (using starch, emulsion and hydrothermal) for preparing Eu-doped ZnO materials with distinct and well-defined morphologies, including spherical, hexagonal and rod, by controlling the reaction conditions. The absorption onset position of ZnO nanostructures is sensitive to the particles shape. We report the generation of bright white light by single wavelength light excitation (330 nm) in hexagonal shaped Eu- doped sample due to energy transfer process. It is found that the shape of particle plays vital important role on the modifications of luminescence properties of Eu-doped ZnO nanocrystals.