Controlled surface distribution and luminescence of YVO4:Eu3+ nanophosphor layers

A method of dispersing YVO4:Eu quantum dots (QDs) as uniform two-dimensional (2D) layers with a high degree of homogeneity is presented. Annealing at 773 K resulted in coalescence of QDs to form nanoclusters with size of similar to 25 nm with an improved photoluminescence and similar to 80% transmittance at 800 nm. An efficient D-5(0)-F-7(2) transition and lifetimes of similar to 1038 mu s for the characteristic Eu3+ emission were observed. The absorption and emission peaks showed a slight blueshift, due to quantum-size effect, as compared to that for the bulk counterpart. Our method of 2D layer deposition is useful to enhance spectral response of the solar cells. (C) 2008 American Institute of Physics.