Structural, photoluminescence and thermoluminescence study of novel Li+ co-activated lanthanum oxide activated with Dy3+ and Eu3+ obtained by microwave-assisted solution combustion synthesis

Abstract Stimulated luminescence of novel La2O3 nanophosphors doped with Dy3+ and Eu3+ and co-activated with Li+, prepared by microwave-assisted solution combustion synthesis, was investigated for the very first time. X-ray diffraction results indicated hexagonal La2O3 crystalline phase. Lanthanide and Li+ doping did not affect the La2O3 crystal structure. Scanning electron microscopy images showed nanoparticle morphologies such as plates, rods and irregular shapes. Photoluminescence spectra of La2O3:Dy3+, Li+ exhibited blue and green emission bands due to Dy3+ transitions. For La2O3:Eu3+, Li+, sharp emission lines, corresponding to the optical transitions of Eu3+ were observed. Thermoluminescence glow curve of La2O3:Dy3+, Li+ previously exposed to beta radiation exhibited a prominent glow peak located at ∼46 °C, possibly useful for after-glow or persistent luminescence applications, whereas La2O3:Eu3+, Li+ curve, displayed three intense peaks at ∼50, ∼110 and ∼150 °C. Thermoluminescent signal repeatability and decay curve asymptotic behaviour could place La2O3:Eu3+, Li+ as suitable for medium and high-dose radiation dosimetry applications.