Gd2O3:Er3+ embedded PMMA/PC nanocomposites: A luminescent nanocomposite

Gd2O3:Er3+ nanophosphor powders were synthesized by the solution combustion method and then embedded into neat Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer solution and Poly carbonate (PC) polymer solution via the solvent casting method to obtain Polymer-Phosphor nanocomposites. This method is widely used due to certain advantages like uniform dispersion of the filler being added and ease of the preparation procedure. Different samples (0.5-2.0 wt %) of Er3+ doped Gd2O3 nanophosphors were prepared by the combustion method. The samples were then characterized by FTIR, XRD, SEM techniques. The particle size was evaluated by Debye Scherrer's formula and was found to be 12 nm using urea as fuel. XRD analysis revealed crystalline nature and monoclinic phase of the synthesized phosphor. On incorporation of the synthesized nanophosphor into the neat polymer solution, neat dispersion of the powder in the film was observed and also at higher phosphor loading (2 wt %), agglomeration was observed. XRD diffractogram of the nanocomposite films confirmed the incorporation of the nanophosphor into the polymer matrix. The emission spectra monitored at 275 nm excitation wavelength, similar emission bands as that of the nanophosphor at 552, 590 and 605 cm(-1) were observed with slight shifts. TGA analysis revealed the thermal stability of the polymer. The CIE chromaticity diagram confirmed the emission color of the nanocomposite films, and the tuning of color by changing Er3+ concentration was also studied.