Dye-Sensitized Downconversion

Splitting one high-energy photon into two lower energy photons through downconversion has been demonstrated for a variety of combinations of rare earth (RE) ions. However, the low absorption cross section of RE3+ 4f-4f transitions hampers practical application. Therefore, enhancing the absorption by sensitization is crucial. We demonstrate efficient dye-sensitized downconversion using a strong blue/UV absorbing Coumarin dye to sensitize downconversion of the Pr3+-Yb3+ couple in NaYF4 nanocrystals (NCs). Luminescence spectra and lifetime measurements reveal Forster resonant energy transfer (FRET) from Coumarin to Pr3+ in NaYF4:Pr3+Yb3+ NCs, followed by downconversion, resulting in Yb3+ IR emission with similar to 30 times enhancement. The present study demonstrates the feasibility of dye-sensitized downconversion as a promising strategy to engineer strongly absorbing downconversion NCs to enhance the efficiency of photovoltaic cells.