The luminescence properties of Bi3+ sensitized Gd2MoO6:RE3+ (RE = Eu or Sm) phosphors for solar spectral conversion

Gd2MoO6:RE3+ (RE = Eu or Sm) and Gd2MoO6:Bi3+, RE3+ (RE = Eu or Sm) phosphors have been synthesized by combustion method. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), photoluminescence excitation (PLE) and photoluminescence (PL) spectra. By introducing Bi3+ ions into Gd2MoO6:RE3+ (RE = Eu or Sm) phosphors, the excitation bands of Eu3+ and Sm3+ ions are broadened and shifted to short wavelength, meanwhile, the emission intensity are enhanced obviously. The energy transfer from Bi3+ to the activators of Eu3+ or Sm3+ is observed and discussed. In addition, the process of ultraviolet light (250-400 nm) converted into visible light can be achieved by using Gd2MoO6:Bi3+, RE3+ (RE = Eu or Sm) phosphor. These phosphors can be a promising ultraviolet-absorbing luminescent converter to enhance the photoelectrical conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). (C) 2013 Elsevier BM. All rights reserved.