Synthesis and luminescence properties of RE³⁺ (RE = Yb, Er, Tm, Eu, Tb)-doped Sc₂O₃ microcrystals

Scandium oxide (Sc₂O₃) microcrystals with controlable morphology and luminescence have been synthesized through a simple wet-chemical route for the first time. By changing the precipitants, Sc₂O₃ microcrystals with different shape and size are achieved. Efficient luminescence emissions have also been reported. Yb³⁺-Er³⁺, Yb³⁺-Tm³⁺ codoped Sc₂O₃ microcrystals can emit bright upconversion (UC) red and blue light with high purity, respectively, while Eu³⁺, Tb³⁺-doped Sc₂O₃ microcrystals can exhibit intense downconversion (DC) red light and green light. Research about the properties of Sc₂O₃ microcrystals opens a window of new and efficient luminescence hosts for further fundamental research and various applications.