Synthesis and luminescence of high-brightness Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+ nanopieces and the enhanced luminescence by alkali metal ions co-doping

Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+ nanopieces were synthesized by a combined approach of electrospinning and calcination at 1000 °C in mixed gas of sulfur dioxide and air. The nanopieces excited by a 230 nm light showed excellent green luminescence with the strongest emission peak at 545 nm due to the 5D4→7F5 transition of Tb3+. Interestingly, the intensity of emission peak at 545 nm of Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+ nanopieces exhibited about two times stronger than that of the bulk Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+ at the same doping concentrations of Tb3+. Besides, the effects of alkali metal ions doping on the luminescence of the nanopieces have been examined. The emission intensities were further enhanced by alkali metal ions doping, especially for Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+/Li+. The optimal doping concentration of Li+ was 7%. -- Highlights: •Gd2O2SO4:Tb3+ nanopieces were prepared via electrospinning followed by calcination. •A comparison between the nanopieces and the bulk was conducted. •The effects of alkali metal ions on the luminescence of nanopieces are examined. •The content of co-dopant in nanopieces is optimized. •The potential applications of the nanopieces and the facile method are suggested