Photoluminescent red, green and blue monoliths of new Eu(III), Tb(III) and Y(III) complexes embedded in silica matrix

Abstract

Large transparent photoluminescent monoliths were prepared by embedding newly synthesized Eu(III), Tb(III) and Y(III) complexes with 2-(1H-1,2,4-Triazol-3-yl)pyridine ligand in silica matrices through a modified sol-gel process. The remarkable luminescent properties of the free complexes were preserved in silica matrix, resulting in red, green and blue monoliths with a shape that may be tailored during the gelation process according to specific applications. Prior to embedment, the complexes prepared at 1/3 metal to ligand ratio were investigated through elemental analysis, thermal analysis, FT-IR, mass and fluorescence spectroscopy while the obtained silica monoliths were supplementary investigated through SEM and fluorescence spectroscopy. The emission peaks are located at 612 nm for the monolithic silica embedded Eu(III) complex, at 542 nm for the monolithic silica embedded Tb(III) complex and at 482 nm respectively for the silica monolith containing the Y(III) complex. Their excellent photoluminescent properties may recommend them as photonic conversion materials in various optoelectronic applications.