Synthesis and luminescent properties of rare earth-doped YVO4 nanocrystalline powders

A presentation is given of large scale rare earth-doped YVO4 nanocrystalline powders synthesized using an organic acid-based easy, soft chemistry. First, V2O5 precursor was reduced (from V5+ to V4+) in the presence of oxalic acid at 200 C, forming oxalate compounds. Subsequent addition of yttrium nitrate and rare earth (Er or Nd) nitrate mixed with citric acid and the reaction of the resulting mixture at 400 degrees C led to Er- (or Nd-) doped YVO4 nanocrystalline powders. Photoluminescent properties (emission and excitation) of near infrared (NIR) (I-4(11/2)-> I-4(15/2)) emitting nanocrystalline YVO4:Er phosphor were characterized as a function of the Er concentration and post-annealing temperature. Characteristic NIR (F-d(3/2)-> I-4(11/2)) emission of nanocrystalline YVO4:Nd phosphor is also reported.