Ultra-small sized Y2O3:Eu3+ nanocrystals: One-step polyoxometalate-assisted synthesis and their photoluminescence properties

A novel hydrothermal approach for the preparation of europium(III)-doped yttrium oxide (Y2O3:Eu3+) nanocrystals was reported. The as-synthesized Y2O3:Eu3+ nanocrystals with diameter of about 5 nm are highly uniform and dispersed in water. The Y2O3:Eu3+ nanocrystals were characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy. Due to their well dispersity in water, low toxicity, and good photoluminescence, the Y2O3:Eu3+ nanocrystals can potentially be used in high-definition displays and fluorescence probe in bioimaging.