Synthesis, characterization and upconversion emission properties of the nanocrystals of Yb3+/Er3+-codoped YF3–YOF–Y2O3 system

Nanocrystalline Yb3+, Er3+-codoped fluoride (YF3), oxyfluoride (YOF), and oxide (Y2O3) phosphors have been synthesized by a facile pyrolysis of a yttrium trifluoroacetate precursor. YF3, YOF and Y2O3 nanoparticles were demonstrated to be good host materials for lanthanides. Varied hosts led to different optical properties. Red, green, and blue up-conversion (UC) was observed upon excitation in the NIR spectral range in all synthesized compounds. The UC mechanisms were also analyzed.