Enhancement of fluorescence and magnetic properties of CeF3:RE3+ (Tb, Gd) nanoparticles via multi-band UV excitation and Li doping regulation

In this study, hydrothermal synthesis of CeF3: Tb, Gd nanoparticles doped with Li+ alkali metal ions were demonstrated using introduction of Li+ ions through LiNO3 nitrate. These nanoparticles have dual properties of magnetic fluorescence. X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, XPS and photoluminescence spectra, and vibrating sample magnetometry were used to characterize structural properties, surface functional groups, fluorescence, and magnetic properties of these particles. Results show that CeF3: Tb, Gd nanoparticles exhibit bright green light emission under excitation at 258 nm and 378 nm ultraviolet band. Through the modification of Li+ ions, luminous intensity of green light is further improved. Energy transfer between rare earth ions was investigated via photoluminescence spectroscopy. This work demonstrates potential applications of Li doped CeF3: Tb, Gd nanoparticles as photomagnetic dual-functional materials in fields of biological imaging, solid state lighting, and magnetic biological separation.