Synthesis and Luminescent Properties of Nanocrystalline (1 – х)ZrO2–хEr2O3 (х = 0.015–0.5) Solid Solutions.

Efficient method for the directed synthesis of ZrO₂–Er₂O₃ luminescent material in nanocrystalline state has been developed. Monodisperse samples of cubic modification with particle size from 5 to 71 nm depending on synthesis conditions have been synthesized. Luminescence spectra due to ⁴I_11/2 → ⁴I_15/2 and ⁴I_13/2 → ⁴I_15/2 transitions of Er³⁺ ions have been registered upon their excitation by 532-nm radiation. Upconversion luminescence spectra due to ²H_11/2, ⁴S_3/2 → ⁴I_15/2, ⁴F_9/2 → ⁴I_15/2 transitions have been registered on excitation to level ⁴I_13/2 of Er³⁺ ions by 1550-nm radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]