Enhanced Eu3+ luminescence in a new hybrid material with an open-framework structure

Organic–inorganic hybrid materials with open-framework structure are currently studied since they represent a class of materials with a great potential as luminescent materials for photonic applications. In this aim, optical properties of Eu3+ in a hybrid material Ln((C6H3)–CO2)3) (Ln∼Y, Eu, Gd) has been investigated. Its three-dimensional structure can be described as a one-dimensional inorganic sub-network related together via organic acids creating an open-framework structure. Doping with Gd3+ ion allows observing the emission of the ligand triplet state at room temperature. Eu3+ excitation spectra demonstrate an efficient energy ligand–rare-earth energy transfer process. Site-selective excitation and the temperature dependence of the 5D0 decay profile on the full concentrated sample as a function of temperature indicate energy migration along the chains.