Optical properties and luminescence kinetics of Ln1.9Pr0.1(WO4)3 (where Ln=Gd, La) immobilized in silica xerogel

Abstract In this paper luminescent materials consisting of Ln1.9Pr0.1(WO4)3 where Ln = Gd or La immobilized in silica xerogel matrix have been obtained through a sol–gel approach. The spectroscopic investigations of these materials are presented. Steady state luminescence, luminescence excitation spectra as well as time resolved emission spectra have been measured. The obtained strong red emission due to the excitation energy transfer from WO 4 2 - group to Pr(III) ion upon excitation at λexc = 240 nm is the main result of this paper. Analysis of the luminescence kinetics of Pr(III) ions in studied materials has been performed. The decay curves of Pr(III) luminescence related to 3P0 → 3H4 and 3P0 → 3F2 transitions are reported. High emission intensity and easy preparation of these materials make them promising red phosphors for applications as luminescent materials.