Enhance photoluminescence properties of Ca-Eu:Y2O3@SiO2 core–shell nanomaterial for the advanced forensic and LEDs applications

Abstract

The divalent (Ca2+)-doped Eu:Y2O3@SiO2 core–shell luminescent nanophosphors have been synthesised by a cost-effective combustion technique. Various characterizations were carried out to confirm the successful formation of the core–shell structure. The TEM micrograph reveals the thickness of the SiO2 coating over Ca-Eu:Y2O3 as ∼25 nm. The optimal value of silica coating over the phosphor has been obtained as 10 vol%(TEOS) of SiO2, with this value increasing fluorescence intensity by 34 %. Phosphor exhibits CIE coordinates as x = 0.425, y = 0.569 and a CCT value as ∼2115 K with color purity and the respective CRI of 80 % and 98 %, respectively, which make the core–shell nanophosphor suitable for warm LEDs, and other optoelectronic applications. Further, the core–shell nanophosphor has been investigated for the visualisation of latent finger prints and as security ink. The findings point towards the prospective future application of nanophosphor materials for anti-counterfeiting purposes and latent finger prints for forensic purposes. © 2023 Elsevier B.V.