Effect of Different Additives on the Size Control and Emission Properties of Y2O3:Eu3+ Nanoparticles Prepared through the Coprecipitation Method

Nanoparticles of europium doped yttrium oxide (Y2O3:Eu3+) were synthesized by the coprecipitation method using oleic acid as a surfactant in the presence of other additives. Incorporation of additives like ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and NaCl in the reaction mixture drastically affects the particle size, size homogeneity, and emission behavior of the nanophosphors. Photoluminescence emission of the nanophosphors drastically enhances and quenches oil addition of NaCl and EDTA in the reaction mixture, respectively. Such emission behaviors of the nanophosphors are explained considering the nephelauxetic effect induced by the incorporated ions in the reaction solution.