Synthesis, structure and luminescent properties of a new Vernier phase Lu7O6F9 doped by Eu3+ as potential scintillator with unique lath tube architecture

To explore novel nano-scintillator with a controllable architecture, pure and Eu3+ doped lutetium oxyfluoride (Lu7O6F9) powder were synthesized by combining mild hydrothermal method and solid state calcination approach. The products were all pure orthorhombic Vernier phase demonstrated by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The detailed crystal structure was also studied by Reitveld refinement. Lath-like microcrystals composed of nanoparticles with unique hollow tube of the products were supported by the images of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Excited by X-ray with W as the target, the pure product showed intense broad emission with the peak at about 400 nm suitable for modern photoelectric multiplier tube (PMT), while the Eu3+ doped sample transferred the incident energy to Eu3+ ions and gave strong D-5(0)-> F-7(j) (j=0, 1, 2 and 4) emission, which fitted for imaging and labeling measurements. From the luminescent properties, both pure and Eu3+-doped products are potential excellent scintillator for X-ray imaging and other high energy detectors, and the pure product is also a good host candidate for rare earth doping.