Growth and characterization of single-crystal Y2O3:Eu nanobelts prepared with a simple technique

In this paper, we report on the synthesis of single-crystalline Y2O3:Eu nanobelts via a simple, rapid, and efficient one-step technique without using any templates or catalysts. The prepared products were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission microscopy (HRTEM), and selected area electron diffraction ( SAED). The effects of pH, reaction temperature, and process time on the phase structure and morphology of the product are studied. The possible growth mechanism of Y2O3 nanobelts is discussed on the basis of the crystal structure of the materials. Photoluminescence results indicate that the Y2O3:Eu nanobelts have a strong red D-5(0)-> F-7(2) transition.