Sensing temperature via downshifting emissions of lanthanide-doped metal oxides and salts. A review

The Butterfly Effect: Multifaceted Consequences of Sensitizer Concentration Change in Phase Transition-based Luminescent Thermometer of LiYO2:Er3+,Yb3

In response to the ongoing quest for new, highly sensitive upconverting luminescent thermometers, this article introduces, for the first time, upconverting luminescent thermometers based on thermally induced structured phase transitions. As demonstrated, the transition from the low-temperature monoclinic to the high-temperature tetragonal structures of LiYO2:Yb3+,Er3+ induces multifaceted modification in the spectroscopic properties of the examined material, influencing the spectral positions of luminescence bands, energy gap values between thermally coupled energy levels, and the red-to-green emission intensities ratio. Moreover, as illustrated, both the color of the emitted light and the phase transition temperature (from 265 K, for LiYO2:Er3+, 1%Yb3+, to 180 K, for 10%Yb3+), and consequently, the thermometric parameters of the luminescent thermometer can be modulated by the concentration of Yb3+ sensitizer ions. Establishing a correlation between the phase transition temperature and the mismatch of ion radii between the host material and dopant ions allows for smooth adjustment of the thermometric performance of such a thermometer following specific application requirements. Three different thermometric approaches were investigated using thermally coupled levels (SR = 1.8%/K at 180 K for 1%Yb3+), green to red emission intensities ratio (SR = 1.5%/K at 305 K for 2%Yb3+), and single band ratiometric approach (SR = 2.5%/K at 240 K for 10%Yb3+). The thermally induced structural phase transition in LiYO2:Er3+,Yb3+ has enabled the development of multiple upconverting luminescent thermometers. This innovative approach opens avenues for advancing the field of luminescence thermometry, offering enhanced relative thermal sensitivity and adaptability for various applications.

Remote temperature sensing in microelectronics: optical thermometry using dual-center phosphors

Remote thermal sensing has emerged as a temperature detection technique for tasks in which standard contact thermometers cannot be used due to environment or dimension limitations. One of such challenging tasks is the measurement of temperature in microelectronics. Here, optical thermometry using co-doped and mixed dual-center Gd2O3:Tb3+/Eu3+samples were realized. Ratiometric approach based on monitoring emission intensities of Tb3+(5D4-7F5) and Eu3+(5D0-7F2) transition provided sensing in the range of 30 °C-80 °C. Dispersion system type only slightly affected relative sensitivity, accuracy and precision. The applicability of phosphors synthesized to be utilized as remote optical thermometers for microelectronics has been proved with an example on a surface mount resistor and microcontroller.

Li4 Zn(PO4 )2 :Mn2+ thermosensitive phosphor with dual luminescent centres for optical thermometry

An optical thermometry strategy based on Mn2+ -doped dual-wavelength emission phosphor has been reported. Samples with different doping content were synthesized through a high-temperature solid-phase method under an air atmosphere. The electronic structure of Li4 Zn(PO4 )2 was calculated using density functional theory, revealing it to be a direct band gap material with an energy gap of 4.708 eV. Moreover, the emitting bands of Mn2+ at 530 and 640 nm can be simultaneously observed when using 417 nm as the exciting wavelength. This is due to the occupation of Mn2+ at the Zn2+ site and the interstitial site. Further analysis was conducted on the temperature-dependent emission characteristics of the sample in the range 293-483 K. Mn2+ has different responses to temperature at different doping sites in Li4 Zn(PO4 )2 . Based on the calculations using the fluorescence intensity ratio technique, the maximum relative sensitivity at a temperature of 483 K was determined to be 1.69% K-1 , while the absolute sensitivity was found to be 0.12% K-1 . The results showed that the Li4 Zn(PO4 )2 :Mn2+ phosphor has potential application in optical thermometry.

Impact of ligand environment on optical, luminescence and thermometric behavior of A3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ (A = Ca, Sr) phosphors

The present study investigates the impact of the ligand environment on the luminescence and thermometric behavior of Sm3+ doped A3 (PO4 )2 (A = Sr, Ca) phosphors prepared by combustion synthesis. The structural and luminescent properties of Sm3+ ions in the phosphate lattices were investigated using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and photoluminescence (PL) techniques. PXRD results of the synthesized phosphors exhibit the expected phases that are in agreement with their respective standards. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirms the presence of PO4 vibrational bands. Upon excitation with near ultraviolet light, the PL studies indicated that Sr3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors exhibit a yellow light emission, whereas Ca3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors exhibit an emission of orange light. The PL emission results are in accordance with the CIE coordinates, with the Sr3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors showing coordinates of (0.56, 0.44), and the Ca3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors displaying coordinates of (0.60, 0.40). Thermal analysis shows improved stability of Ca3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ based on lower weight reduction in thermogravimetric analysis. The effect of temperature on the luminescence properties of the phosphor has been examined upon a 405 nm excitation. By using the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) method, the temperature responses of the emission ratios from the Sm3+ : the 4 F3/2  → 6 H5/2 transition to the 4 G5/2  → 6 H7/2 and 4 F3/2  → 6 H5/2 transition to the 4 G5/2  → 6 H9/2 emissions are characterized. The Ca3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors are more sensitive as compared with the Sr3 (PO4 )2 :Sm3+ phosphors. The earlier research findings strongly indicate that these phosphors hold great promise as ideal candidates for applications in non-invasive optical thermometry and solid-state lighting devices.

A novel optical temperature sensor and energy transfer properties based on Tb3+/Sm3+ codoped SrY2(MoO4)4 phosphors

A series of SrY2(MoO4)4 phosphors doped and co-doped with Tb3+/Sm3+ ions was synthesized to develop new optical temperature sensor materials. The structures, morphologies, and luminescent characteristics of these phosphors were thoroughly investigated. Luminescence spectra of mono-doped SrY2(MoO4)4 phosphors were measured under the excitation at 375 and 403 nm corresponding to direct excitation of Tb3+ and Sm3+, respectively. The characteristic luminescence bands corresponding to electronic transitions of terbium and samarium ions were detected and investigated for different dopant concentrations. The emission spectrum of the Tb3+/Sm3+ co-doped sample exhibited a total of five distinct emission peaks, indicating an energy transfer from Tb3+ to Sm3+ ions. The energy transfer efficiency from Tb3+ ions to Sm3+ ions was investigated in detail. At elevated temperatures, Tb3+ and Sm3+ exhibited distinct thermal sensitivities in their emission and excitation spectra, leading to evident thermochromic behavior. The fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) was utilized with dual center to evaluate the temperature sensitivity of SrY2(MoO4)4:Tb3+/Sm3+ phosphors. The temperature sensing mechanism relied on the emission band intensity ratios of the 4G5/2 → 6H5/2, 4G5/2 → 6H9/2, and 4G5/2 → 6H7/2 transitions of Sm3+ in conjunction with the 5D5/2 → 7F5/2 transitions of Tb3+. This approach demonstrated high thermal sensitivity values, reaching up to 0.9% K-1. The studied nanoparticles exhibited sub-degree thermal resolution, making them suitable candidates for precise temperature-sensing applications.

Luminescence Thermometry with Nanoparticles: A Review

Luminescence thermometry has emerged as a very versatile optical technique for remote temperature measurements, exhibiting a wide range of applicability spanning from cryogenic temperatures to 2000 K. This technology has found extensive utilization across many disciplines. In the last thirty years, there has been significant growth in the field of luminous thermometry. This growth has been accompanied by the development of temperature read-out procedures, the creation of luminescent materials for very sensitive temperature probes, and advancements in theoretical understanding. This review article primarily centers on luminescent nanoparticles employed in the field of luminescence thermometry. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive survey of the recent literature pertaining to the utilization of lanthanide and transition metal nanophosphors, semiconductor quantum dots, polymer nanoparticles, carbon dots, and nanodiamonds for luminescence thermometry. In addition, we engage in a discussion regarding the benefits and limitations of nanoparticles in comparison with conventional, microsized probes for their application in luminescent thermometry.

White-emitting orthosilicate phosphor α-Sr2SiO4:Ce3+/Eu2+/K+: a bimodal temperature sensor with excellent optical thermometric sensitivity

Non-contact temperature sensors with low cost, high reliability and high sensitivity have attracted increasing research interest in recent years. In this study, we synthesized a bimodal optical temperature sensor Sr2SiO4:Ce3+/Eu2+/K+ with excellent thermometric sensitivity through a high-temperature solid-state reaction method. In the matrix of α-Sr2SiO4, Ce3+ luminescence exhibits excellent thermal stability (∼129.1%@250 °C), while Eu2+ shows strong thermal quenching (∼21.7%@250 °C), leading to a significant change in the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) of Ce3+ (437 nm) and Eu2+ (550 nm) as a function of temperature. This feature enables the phosphor exhibiting outstanding sensitivity in the temperature range of 298-523 K. To be exact, it demonstrates a maximal relative sensitivity of 0.93% K-1 at 348 K. Its absolute sensitivity linearly increases and reaches 3.46% K-1 at 523 K. Besides, it has a large chromaticity shift (ΔE = 228 × 10-3 in 298-523 K) against temperature, making the temperature change visible to the naked eye. We first demonstrate a CIE chromaticity coordinate technique for temperature sensing with high accuracy and good sensitivity by using the function of x or (x2 + y2)0.5 against T. These unique optical thermometric features allow Sr2SiO4:Ce3+/Eu2+/K+ to serve as an accurate and reliable thermometer probe candidate for temperature sensing applications.

Extending the Palette of Luminescent Primary Thermometers: Yb3+/Pr3+ Co-Doped Fluoride Phosphate Glasses

The unique tunable properties of glasses make them versatile materials for developing numerous state-of-the-art optical technologies. To design new optical glasses with tailored properties, an extensive understanding of the intricate correlation between their chemical composition and physical properties is mandatory. By harnessing this knowledge, the full potential of vitreous matrices can be unlocked, driving advancements in the field of optical sensors. We herein demonstrate the feasibility of using fluoride phosphate glasses co-doped with trivalent praseodymium (Pr3+) and ytterbium (Yb3+) ions for temperature sensing over a broad range of temperatures. These glasses possess high chemical and thermal stability, working as luminescent primary thermometers that rely on the thermally coupled levels of Pr3+ that eliminate the need for recurring calibration procedures. The prepared glasses exhibit a relative thermal sensitivity and uncertainty at a temperature of 1.0% K-1 and 0.5 K, respectively, making them highly competitive with the existing luminescent thermometers. Our findings highlight that Pr3+-containing materials are promising for developing cost-effective and accurate temperature probes, taking advantage of the unique versatility of these vitreous matrices to design the next generation of photonic technologies.

Enabling Yb3+ Luminescence with Visible Light Response in Mg2GeO4 via Energy Transfer

The growing demand for spectroscopy applications in the areas of bioimaging, food quality analysis, and temperature sensing has led to extensive research on infrared light sources. It is crucial for the design of cost-effective and high-performance systems that phosphors possess the ability to absorb blue light from commercial LEDs and convert the excitation energy to long-wavelength infrared luminescence. In this work, we obtained Yb3+ luminescence with visible light response by utilizing the energy transfer from Cr3+ to Yb3+ in Mg2GeO4. After the introduction of Yb3+, intense NIR luminescence peaking at 974 nm can be achieved with an increasing intensity. The local structure analysis was performed to investigate the preferential occupation of Yb3+ ions and the energy transfer process in Mg2GeO4. Considering the properties of thermally coupled anti-Stokes and Stokes emissions of Yb3+ and the sensitive variation of the emission intensity, the potential application of Mg2GeO4:Cr3+, Yb3+ as thermometers was demonstrated.

Spotlight on Luminescence Thermometry: Basics, Challenges, and Cutting-Edge Applications

Luminescence (nano)thermometry is a remote sensing technique that relies on the temperature dependency of the luminescence features (e.g., bandshape, peak energy or intensity, and excited state lifetimes and risetimes) of a phosphor to measure temperature. This technique provides precise thermal readouts with superior spatial resolution in short acquisition times. Although luminescence thermometry is just starting to become a more mature subject, it exhibits enormous potential in several areas, e.g., optoelectronics, photonics, micro- and nanofluidics, and nanomedicine. This work reviews the latest trends in the field, including the establishment of a comprehensive theoretical background and standardized practices. The reliability, repeatability, and reproducibility of the technique are also discussed, along with the use of multiparametric analysis and artificial-intelligence algorithms to enhance thermal readouts. In addition, examples are provided to underscore the challenges that luminescence thermometry faces, alongside the need for a continuous search and design of new materials, experimental techniques, and analysis procedures to improve the competitiveness, accessibility, and popularity of the technology.

Dual functionality luminescence thermometry with Gd2O2S:Eu3+,Nd3+ and its multiple applications in biosensing and in situ temperature measurements

Luminescence thermometry using sharp line emission of lanthanide ions has become an active area of research as it offers the advantages of remote temperature sensing with high sensitivity and superior spatial resolution. The most widely applied method relies on the temperature dependence of the luminescence intensity ratio of emission lines from two thermally coupled levels. However, the usable temperature range for this type of Boltzmann thermometer is limited. In addition, the weak and narrow line absorption of the parity forbidden 4f-4f transitions of lanthanides forms a serious drawback. To solve both problems, we here report a new dual functionality luminescence thermometer: Gd₂O₂S co-doped with Eu³⁺ and Nd³⁺. This material combines Boltzmann and energy transfer thermometry to extend the temperature range and uses the strong and broad charge transfer absorption band of Eu³⁺ for sensitization. In the T-range of 300-500 K efficient energy transfer from Eu³⁺ to Nd³⁺ allows for charge transfer-sensitized luminescence thermometry using near infrared emission from the thermally coupled ⁴F_3/2 and ⁴F_5/2 levels of Nd³⁺. Above 500 K a high temperature sensitivity is obtained using the strong temperature dependence of the luminescence intensity ratio of red Eu³⁺ to near infrared Nd³⁺ emission. The dual-functionality provides a single thermometer combining strong absorption and high relative sensitivity (0.6 - 1.4%) over a wide temperature range (300 to 650 K). Finally, it is proposed that this dual-function luminescent thermometer has promising potential for multifunctional applications in biosensors and in situ temperature measurements of chemical reaction process.

Obtaining the spectroscopic quality factor through the luminescent thermometry in 50Li2O · 45B2O3 · 5Al2O3 glasses doped with Nd3+ and fluorides

Lithium-boron-aluminum (LBA) glasses doped with N d ³⁺ and fluorides were produced. From the absorption spectra, their Judd-Ofelt intensity parameters, Ω _2,4,6, and spectroscopic quality factors were calculated. Exploiting their near infrared temperature dependent luminescence, we investigated their potential for optical thermometry based on the luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) methodology. Three LIR schemes were proposed, and relative sensitivity values up to 3.57±0.06% K ^-1 were obtained. From the temperature dependent luminescence, we alternatively calculated their corresponding spectroscopic quality factors. The results indicated that N d ³⁺-doped LBA glasses are promising systems for optical thermometry and as gain mediums for solid-state lasers.

Self-optimized single-nanowire photoluminescence thermometry

Nanomaterials-based photoluminescence thermometry (PLT) is a new contact-free photonic approach for temperature sensing, important for applications ranging from quantum technology to biomedical imaging and diagnostics. Even though numerous new materials have been explored, great challenges and deficiencies remain that hamper many applications. In contrast to most of the existing approaches that use large ensembles of rare-earth-doped nanomaterials with large volumes and unavoidable inhomogeneity, we demonstrate the ultimate size reduction and simplicity of PLT by using only a single erbium-chloride-silicate (ECS) nanowire. Importantly, we propose and demonstrate a novel strategy that contains a self-optimization or "smart" procedure to automatically identify the best PL intensity ratio for temperature sensing. The automated procedure is used to self-optimize key sensing metrics, such as sensitivity, precision, or resolution to achieve an all-around superior PLT including several record-setting metrics including the first sensitivity exceeding 100% K^-1 (~138% K^-1), the highest resolution of 0.01 K, and the largest range of sensible temperatures 4-500 K operating completely within 1500-1800 nm (an important biological window). The high-quality ECS nanowire enables the use of well-resolved Stark-sublevels to construct a series of PL intensity ratios for optimization in infrared, allowing the completely Boltzmann-based sensing at cryogenic temperature for the first time. Our single-nanowire PLT and the proposed optimization strategy overcome many existing challenges and could fundamentally impact PL nano-thermometry and related applications such as single-cell thermometry.

The Coming of Age of Neodymium: Redefining Its Role in Rare Earth Doped Nanoparticles

Among luminescent nanostructures actively investigated in the last couple of decades, rare earth (RE³⁺) doped nanoparticles (RENPs) are some of the most reported family of materials. The development of RENPs in the biomedical framework is quickly making its transition to the ∼800 nm excitation pathway, beneficial for both in vitro and in vivo applications to eliminate heating and facilitate higher penetration in tissues. Therefore, reports and investigations on RENPs containing the neodymium ion (Nd³⁺) greatly increased in number as the focus on ∼800 nm radiation absorbing Nd³⁺ ion gained traction. In this review, we cover the basics behind the RE³⁺ luminescence, the most successful Nd³⁺-RENP architectures, and highlight application areas. Nd³⁺-RENPs, particularly Nd³⁺-sensitized RENPs, have been scrutinized by considering the division between their upconversion and downshifting emissions. Aside from their distinctive optical properties, significant attention is paid to the diverse applications of Nd³⁺-RENPs, notwithstanding the pitfalls that are still to be addressed. Overall, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview on Nd³⁺-RENPs, discussing their developmental and applicative successes as well as challenges. We also assess future research pathways and foreseeable obstacles ahead, in a field, which we believe will continue witnessing an effervescent progress in the years to come.

The role of Nd3+ concentration in the modulation of the thermometric performance of Stokes/anti-Stokes luminescence thermometer in NaYF4:Nd3

The growing popularity of luminescence thermometry observed in recent years is related to the high application potential of this technique. However, in order to use such materials in a real application, it is necessary to have a thorough understanding of the processes responsible for thermal changes in the shape of the emission spectrum of luminophores. In this work, we explain how the concentration of Nd³⁺ dopant ions affects the change in the thermometric parameters of a thermometer based on the ratio of Stokes (⁴F_3/2 → ⁴I_9/2) to anti-Stokes (⁴F_7/2,⁴S_3/2 → ⁴I_9/2) emission intensities in NaYF₄:Nd³⁺. It is shown that the spectral broadening of the ⁴I_9/2 → ⁴F_5/2, ²H_9/2 absorption band observed for higher dopant ion concentrations enables the modulation of the relative sensitivity, usable temperature range, and uncertainty of temperature determination of such a luminescent thermometer.

Composites Based on Polylactide Doped with Amorphous Europium(III) Complex as Perspective Thermosensitive Luminescent Materials

This work reports fabrication of polylactide (PLA) films doped with various additives of an amorphous Eu(III) complex. We study the temperature behavior of the luminescence intensity and lifetime of the PLA-Eu(III) composites in the range of 298–353 K and investigate the mechanism of luminescence temperature quenching. The peak relative sensitivity of the films reaches 20.1 %×K−1 and exceeds the respective characteristics of all known lanthanide-containing thermosensors designed for the range of physiological temperatures. The produced films can be potential novel materials for luminescent thermosensors.

Examining the Spectroscopic and Thermographic Qualities of Er3+-doped Oxyfluoride Germanotellurite Glasses

Novel ternary fluoro-germano-tellurite (GTS) glasses doped with Er³⁺ ions with 0.5 mol% and 1.0 mol% were fabricated by a conventional melt and quenching method and investigated using methods of optical spectroscopy. The room-temperature absorption spectrum was recorded and analyzed to determine radiative transition rates, radiative lifetimes, and branching ratios of Er³⁺ luminescence. Decay curves of Er³⁺ luminesccence were recorded and analyzed. Temperature dependences of emission spectra and absorption spectra in the region from RT (room-temperature) up to 675 K were studied in detail. The contribution of competing radiative and nonradiative processes to the relaxation of luminescent levels of Er³⁺ was assessed. Absolute and relative sensitivity were established utilizing the comprehensive model based on thermally coupled ²H_11/2/⁴S_3/2 excited states of erbium. The high quantum efficiency of the first erbium-excited state and value of gain coefficient indicate that GTS:Er glass system can be considered as conceivable NIR (near infrared) laser material as well.

Influence of the Synthesis Conditions on the Morphology and Thermometric Properties of the Lifetime-Based Luminescent Thermometers in YPO4:Yb3+,Nd3+ Nanocrystals

An increase in the accuracy of remote temperature readout using luminescent thermometry is determined, among other things, by the relative sensitivity of the thermometer. Therefore, to increase the sensitivity, intensive work is carried out to optimize the host material composition and select the luminescent ions accordingly. However, the role of nanocrystal morphology in thermometric performance is often neglected. This paper presents a systematic study determining the role of synthesis parameters of the solvothermal method on the morphology of YPO₄:Yb³⁺,Nd³⁺ nanocrystals and their effect on the lifetime of Yb³⁺ ion-based luminescent thermometer performance. It was shown that by changing the RE³⁺:(PO₄)^3- ratio and the concentration of Nd³⁺ ions, the size, shape, and aggregation level of the nanocrystals can be modified changing the thermometric parameters of the luminescent thermometer. The highest relative sensitivity was obtained for the low RE³⁺:(PO₄)^3- ratio and 1% Nd³⁺ ion concentration.

Persistent visible luminescence of SrF2:Pr3+ for ratiometric thermometry

Luminescence-based thermometry, especially the ratiometric temperature sensing technology, has attracted considerable attention recently due to its characteristics such as non-contact operating mode and strong capacity of resisting disturbance. Differing from the conventional strategy that usually needs continuous excitation, here an optical thermometry, which we have named the persistent luminescence intensity ratio (PLIR) thermometry, is proposed. The PLIR thermometry relies on the optical material SrF₂:Pr³⁺ that could emit luminescence for several hours and even longer after being charged by X-ray. It has been demonstrated that the PLIR is sensitive to the variation of temperature and complies with the Boltzmann distribution. More importantly, the reliability of the proposed PLIR thermometry is verified. Our work may inspire others to develop more persistent luminescence thermometry.

Fluorescent Eu3+/Tb3+ Metal-Organic Frameworks for Ratiometric Temperature Sensing Regulated by Ligand Energy

This work presents three series of Eu/Tb metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) containing benzophenone-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid (H₂BPNDC), 4,4'-dicarboxydiphenyl ether (H₂OBA), and terephthalic acid (H₂BDC) as the ligands. Eu/Tb MOFs have the same structural features in that their 3D frameworks are simplified as 2,3,10-connected {4².6}₂{4⁶.6¹⁸.8¹⁹.10²}{4}₂ topological networks. The solid-state fluorescence spectra of three Eu/Tb MOF series are attributed to the combined emissions of ⁵D₀ → ⁷F_J (J = 1-4) transitions in Eu³⁺ and ⁵D₄ → ⁷F_J (J = 6-5) transitions in Tb³⁺. The n_Eu:n_Tb of Eu/Tb MOFs is optimized as 1:69 based on the relationships between I_Tb(545)/I_Eu(614) and n_Eu:n_Tb; that is, Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-L (L = BPNDC^2-, OBA^2-, and BDC^2-) were selected to carry out the following temperature (T)-sensing tests. The fluorescence mechanism of Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-L can be explained by a ligand-to-metal charge transfer combined with an intermetallic Tb³⁺ → Eu³⁺ energy transfer. The T-dependent fluorescence indicates linear relationships with sensitivities of 1.85% K^-1 for Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-BPNDC, 6.49% K^-1 for Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-OBA, and 0.28% K^-1 for Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-BDC. The influence of T on the lowest excited triplet energy levels (T1 values) of the ligands reveals that the ligand energy regulation impacts their fluorescence properties, including the sensitivity, fluorescence quenching rate, quantum yield, and fluorescence lifetime. This shows that Eu_0.0143Tb_0.9857-BPNDC is sufficiently sensitive to T, making it applicable in noncontact T measurements.

Infrared Photoluminescence of Nd-Doped Sesquioxide and Fluoride Nanocrystals: A Comparative Study

Lanthanide ions possess various emission channels in the near-infrared region that are well known in bulk crystals but are far less studied in samples with nanometric size. In this work, we present the infrared spectroscopic characterization of various Nd-doped fluoride and sesquioxide nanocrystals, namely Nd:Y2O3, Nd:Lu2O3, Nd:Sc2O3, Nd:YF3, and Nd:LuF3. Emissions from the three main emission bands in the near-infrared region have been observed and the emission cross-sections have been calculated. Moreover, another decay channel at around 2 μm has been observed and ascribed to the 4F3/2→4I15/2 transition. The lifetime of the 4F3/2 level has been measured under LED pumping. Emission cross-sections for the various compounds are calculated in the 1 μm, 900 nm, and 1.3 μm regions and are of the order of 10−20 cm2 in agreement with the literature results. Those in the 2 μm region are of the order of 10−21 cm2.

Temperature-Sensitive Chameleon Luminescent Films Based on PMMA Doped with Europium(III) and Terbium(III) Anisometric Complexes

The spin-coating technique was used to produce composite films consisting of PMMA polymer doped with anisometric complexes of Eu(III) and Tb(III). It was found that an increase in the content of Tb3+ complexes intensifies emission of both ions due to the intermolecular energy transfer from the Tb(III) complex to the Eu(III) complex, which results in the increase in the relative luminescence quantum yield of Eu(III) ion by 36%. The temperature sensitivity of the film luminescence intensity and lifetime in the range of 296–363 K was investigated. The maximum relative sensitivity of the films reaches 5.44% × K−1 and exceeds that of all known lanthanide-containing thermal sensors designed for measuring physiological temperatures. In combination with changing luminescence color, such a sensitivity makes these films promising colorimetric thermal sensors for in situ temperature measurements.

Thermally boosted upconversion and downshifting luminescence in Sc2(MoO4)3:Yb/Er with two-dimensional negative thermal expansion

Rare earth (RE³⁺)-doped phosphors generally suffer from thermal quenching, in which their photoluminescence (PL) intensities decrease at high temperatures. Herein, we report a class of unique two-dimensional negative-thermal-expansion phosphor of Sc₂(MoO₄)₃:Yb/Er. By virtue of the reduced distances between sensitizers and emitters as well as confined energy migration with increasing the temperature, a 45-fold enhancement of green upconversion (UC) luminescence and a 450-fold enhancement of near-infrared downshifting (DS) luminescence of Er³⁺ are achieved upon raising the temperature from 298 to 773 K. The thermally boosted UC and DS luminescence mechanism is systematically investigated through in situ temperature-dependent Raman spectroscopy, synchrotron X-ray diffraction and PL dynamics. Moreover, the luminescence lifetime of ⁴I_13/2 of Er³⁺ in Sc₂(MoO₄)₃:Yb/Er displays a strong temperature dependence, enabling luminescence thermometry with the highest relative sensitivity of 12.3%/K at 298 K and low temperature uncertainty of 0.11 K at 623 K. These findings may gain a vital insight into the design of negative-thermal-expansion RE³⁺-doped phosphors for versatile applications.

Rare-earth doped phosphors with negative thermal expansion (NTE) may display thermally-enhanced emission, but their performance is generally limited. Here the authors report thermally-boosted green upconversion luminescence and near-infrared downshifting luminescence in Sc₂(MoO₄)₃:Yb/Er phosphors with two-dimensional NTE, and their application in temperature sensing.

Boltzmann-distribution-dominated persistent luminescence ratiometric thermometry in NaYF4:Pr3

A novel, to the best of our knowledge, optical temperature measurement method is proposed, i.e., persistent luminescence intensity ratio (PLIR) thermometry. The PLIR thermometry relies on the micro-sized NaYF₄:Pr³⁺ material that can emit persistent luminescence (PersL) uninterruptedly after being charged by x ray irradiation. The ³P₁→³H₅ and ³P₀→³H₅ PersL transitions, locating separately at ∼ 522 and 538 nm, have been confirmed to follow the Boltzmann distribution. The emitting intensity ratio of this pair of PersL lines is thus found to be a good indicator of the variation of temperature. Our work is expected to enrich the optical temperature sensing family.

Photoluminescence of the Eu3+-Activated YxLu1−xNbO4 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) Solid-Solution Phosphors

Eu3+-doped YxLu1−xNbO4 (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) were prepared by the solid-state reaction method. YNbO4:Eu3+ and LuNbO4:Eu3+ crystallize as beta-Fergusonite (SG no. 15) in 1–10 μm diameter particles. Photoluminescence emission spectra show a slight linear variation of emission energies and intensities with the solid-solution composition in terms of Y/Lu content. The energy difference between Stark sublevels of 5D0→7F1 emission increases, while the asymmetry ratio decreases with the composition. From the dispersion relations of pure YNbO4 and LuNbO4, the refractive index values for each concentration and emission wavelength are estimated. The Ω2 Judd–Ofelt parameter shows a linear increase from 6.75 to 7.48 × 10−20 cm2 from x = 0 to 1, respectively, and Ω4 from 2.69 to 2.95 × 10−20 cm2. The lowest non-radiative deexcitation rate was observed with x = 1, and thus LuNbO4:Eu3+ is more efficient phosphor than YNbO4:Eu3+.

Optical temperature sensing by tuning photoluminescence in a wide (visible to near infrared) wavelength range in a Eu3+-doped Bi-based relaxor ferroelectric

The prevalent material design principles for optical thermometry primarily rely on thermally driven changes in the relative intensities of the thermally coupled levels (TCLs) of rare-earth-doped phosphor materials, where the maximum achievable sensitivity is limited by the energy gap between the TCLs. In this work, a new, to the best of our knowledge, approach to thermometric material design is proposed, which is based on temperature tuning of PL emission from the visible to the NIR region. We demonstrate a model ferroelectric phosphor, Eu³⁺-doped 0.94(Na_1/2Bi_1/2TiO₃)-0.06(BaTiO₃) (NBT-6BT), which, by virtue of the contrasting effects of temperature on PL signals from the host and Eu³⁺ intraband transitions, can achieve a relative thermal sensitivity as high as 3.05% K^-1. This model system provides a promising alternative route for developing self-referencing optical thermometers with high thermal sensitivity and good signal discriminability.

Eu3+-based dual-excitation single-emission luminescent ratiometric thermometry

Recently, single-band ratiometric (SBR) thermometry becomes a hot-spot in the research field of optical thermometry. Here we propose a new SBR thermometry by combining the temperature-induced red shift of charge transfer state (CTS) of W-O and Eu-O with the ground state absorption (GSA) and excited state absorption (ESA) of Eu³⁺. The emitting intensity of the ⁵D₀-⁷F₂ transition of Eu³⁺ is monitored under CTS, GSA and ESA excitations at different temperatures. It is found that the SBR thermometry, depending on the combination of [GSA + CTS] of Eu³⁺ doped calcium tungstate, has the highest relative sensitivity of 1.25% K^-1 at 573 K, higher than conventional luminescent ratiometric thermometry such as the ²H_11/2 and ⁴S_3/2 thermally coupled states of Er³⁺.

Lanthanide-doped bismuth-based nanophosphors for ratiometric upconversion optical thermometry

Nanothermometry could realize stable, efficient, and noninvasive temperature detection at the nanoscale. Unfortunately, most applications of nanothermometers are still limited due to their intricate synthetic process and low-temperature sensitivity. Herein, we reported a kind of novel bismuth-based upconversion nanomaterial with a fast and facile preparation strategy. The bismuth-based upconversion luminophore was synthesized by the co-precipitation method within 1 minute. By optimizing the doping ratio of the sensitizer Yb ion and the activator Er ion and adjusting the synthetic solvent strategy, the crystallinity of the nanomaterials was increased and the upconversion luminescence intensity was improved. Ratiometric upconversion optical measurements of temperature in the range of 278 K to 358 K can be achieved by ratiometric characteristic emission peaks of thermally sensitive Er ion. This method of rapidly constructing nanometer temperature probes provides a feasible strategy for the construction of novel fluorescent temperature probes.

Lanthanide-doped bismuth-based nanospheres can be rapidly synthesized within 1 minute for upconversion luminescence ratiometric temperature detection.

NIR emission of lanthanides for ultrasensitive luminescence manometry-Er3+-activated optical sensor of high pressure

Pressure is an important physical parameter and hence its monitoring is very important for different industrial and scientific applications. Although commonly used luminescent pressure sensors (ruby-Al₂O₃:Cr³⁺ and SrB₄O₇:Sm²⁺) allow optical monitoring of pressure in compressed systems (usually in a diamond anvil cell; DAC), their detection resolution is limited by sensitivity, i.e., pressure response in a form of the detected spectral shift. Here we report, a breakthrough in optical pressure sensing by developing an ultra-sensitive NIR pressure sensor (dλ/dP = 1.766 nm GPa^-1). This luminescent manometer is based on the optically active YVO₄:Yb³⁺-Er³⁺ phosphor material which exhibits the largest spectral shift as a function of pressure compared to other luminescent pressure gauges reported elsewhere. In addition, thanks to the locations of excitation and emission in the NIR range, the developed optical manometer allows high-pressure measurements (without spectral overlapping/interferences) of various luminescent organic and inorganic materials, which are typically excited and can emit in the UV-vis spectral ranges.

A highly sensitive ratiometric optical cryothermometer using a new broadband emitting trivalent bismuth singly activated Ba2ZnSc(BO3)3 microcrystal

Motivated by the growing demand for noncontact temperature sensing in cryogenic environments, the development of a high performance low temperature optical thermometer has become more and more urgent. Herein, we demonstrate a new broadband emitting bismuth singly activated Ba₂ZnSc(BO₃)₃ optical thermometric material that exhibits a remarkable temperature-dependent emission color variation and a good low temperature sensing performance. First, Bi³⁺ doped Ba₂ZnSc(BO₃)₃ phosphors were successfully synthesized by a high-temperature solid-state reaction. Upon excitation at 320 nm, the emission spectra of Ba₂ZnSc(BO₃)₃:Bi³⁺ cover almost the entire visible region from 350 to 720 nm because of the multiple crystallographic sites occupied by Bi³⁺ ions, which have been verified by structure analysis and time-resolved emission spectroscopy. Interestingly, the temperature dependent emission characteristics indicated that the thermal quenching phenomena of Bi³⁺ at different lattice sites were different, resulting in a very sensitive emission color variation from orange to cyan. Further analysis indicated that these Bi³⁺ doped luminescent materials showed a good performance in temperature sensing over a wide temperature range from 10 to 374 K, with a maximum relative sensitivity of 3.076% K^-1 at 210 K. Finally, this study provides a new perspective for the design of superior thermosensitive phosphors, aimed toward non-rare earth ion doped thermosensitive phosphors for optical cryothermometry applications.

NaLaMgWO6:Mn4+/Pr3+/Bi3+ bifunctional phosphors for optical thermometer and plant growth illumination matching phytochrome PR and PFR

Phytochromes P_R and P_FR distributed in different organs of plant can effectively absorb red and far-red light, respectively. Therefore, plant growth can be controlled by changing the ratio of red light to far-red light. The emission of Pr³⁺ (transition from ³P₀→³F_2,3) and Mn⁴⁺(transition from ²E_g→⁴A_2g) is located at the red and far-red range which matches with the absorption band of P_R and P_FR, respectively. Herein, NaLaMgWO₆:Mn⁴⁺/Pr³⁺/Bi³⁺ phosphors with improving luminescence properties via Bi³⁺ doping have been successfully prepared by the sol-gel method. With the variation of temperature, the photoluminescence (PL) of Pr³⁺/Mn⁴⁺ (corresponding to P_FR/P_R) of titled phosphors can be tuned, which is very useful for controlling the plant growth. Moreover, based on the fluorescence intensity ratios (FIR) of the two activator Mn⁴⁺ and Pr³⁺, the maximum relative sensitivity was approximately 3.39%/K at 298 K. All the results indicated that the titled phosphor is a bifunctional material for plant growth illumination with high matching phytochrome (P_R and P_FR) and temperature sensing with high sensitivity.

High-sensitivity and wide-temperature-range dual-mode optical thermometry under dual-wavelength excitation in a novel double perovskite tellurate oxide

Novel double perovskite SrLaLiTeO₆ (abbreviated as SLLT):Mn⁴⁺,Dy³⁺ phosphors synthesized using a solid-state reaction strategy exhibit distinct dual-emission of Mn⁴⁺ and Dy³⁺. High-sensitivity and wide-temperature-range dual-mode optical thermometry was exploited taking advantage of the diverse thermal quenching between Mn⁴⁺ and Dy³⁺ and the decay lifetime of Mn⁴⁺. The thermometric properties in the range of 298-673 K were investigated by utilizing the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) of Dy³⁺ (⁴F_9/2→⁶H_13/2)/Mn⁴⁺ (²E_g→⁴A_2g) and the Mn⁴⁺ (²E_g→⁴A_2g) lifetime under 351 nm and 453 nm excitation, respectively. The maximum relative sensitivities (S_R) of the resultant SLLT:1.2%Mn⁴⁺,7%Dy³⁺ phosphor under 351 nm and 453 nm excitation employing the FIR technology were determined to be 1.60% K^-1 at 673 K and 1.44% K^-1 at 673 K, respectively. Additionally, the maximum S_R values based on the lifetime-mode were 1.59% K^-1 at 673 K and 2.18% K^-1 at 673 K, respectively. It is noteworthy that the S_R values can be manipulated by different excitation wavelengths and multi-modal optical thermometry. These results suggest that the SLLT:Mn⁴⁺,Dy³⁺ phosphor has prospective potential in optical thermometry and provide conducive guidance for designing high-sensitivity multi-modal optical thermometers.

Exploring the Impact of Structure-Sensitivity Factors on Thermographic Properties of Dy3+-Doped Oxide Crystals

Optical absorption spectra and luminescence spectra were recorded as a function of temperature between 295 K and 800 K for single crystal samples of Gd₂SiO₅:Dy³⁺, Lu₂SiO₅:Dy³⁺, LiNbO₃:Dy³⁺, and Gd₃Ga₃Al₂O₁₂:Dy³⁺ fabricated by the Czochralski method and of YAl₃(BO₃)₄:Dy³⁺ fabricated by the top-seeded high temperature solution method. A thermally induced change of fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) between the ⁴I_15/2→ ⁶H_15/2 and ⁴F_9/2 → ⁶H_15/2 emission bands of Dy³⁺ was inferred from experimental data. It was found that relative thermal sensitivities S_R at 350 K are higher for YAl₃(BO₃)₄:Dy³⁺ and Lu₂SiO₅:Dy³⁺than those for the remaining systems studied. Based on detailed examination of the structural peculiarities of the crystals it was ascertained that the observed difference between thermosensitive features cannot be attributed directly to the dissimilarity of structural factors consisting of the geometry and symmetry of Dy³⁺ sites, the number of non-equivalent Dy³⁺ sites, and the host anisotropy. Instead, it was found that a meaningful correlation between relative thermal sensitivity S_R and rates of radiative transitions of Dy³⁺ inferred from the Judd–Ofelt treatment exists. It was concluded that generalization based on the Judd–Ofelt parameters and luminescence branching ratio analysis may be useful during a preliminary assessment of thermosensitive properties of new phosphor materials.

All near-infrared multiparametric luminescence thermometry using Er3+, Yb3+-doped YAG nanoparticles

This paper presents four new temperature readout approaches to luminescence nanothermometry in spectral regions of biological transparency demonstrated on Yb³⁺/Er³⁺-doped yttrium aluminum garnet nanoparticles. Under the 10 638 cm⁻¹ excitation, down-shifting near infrared emissions (>10 000 cm⁻¹) are identified as those originating from Yb³⁺ ions' ²F_5/2 → ²F_7/2 (∼9709 cm⁻¹) and Er³⁺ ions' ⁴I_13/2 → ⁴I_15/2 (∼6494 cm⁻¹) electronic transitions and used for 4 conceptually different luminescence thermometry approaches. Observed variations in luminescence parameters with temperature offered an exceptional base for studying multiparametric temperature readouts. These include the temperature-dependence of: (i) intensity ratio between emissions from Stark components of Er^{3+ 4}I_13/2 level; (ii) intensity ratio between emissions of Yb³⁺ (²F_5/2 → ²F_7/2 transition) and Er³⁺ (⁴I_13/2 → ⁴I_15/2 transition); (iii) band shift and bandwidth and (iv) lifetime of the Yb³⁺ emission (²F_5/2 → ²F_7/2 transition) with maximal sensitivities of 1% K⁻¹, 0.8% K⁻¹, 0.09 cm⁻¹ K⁻¹, 0.46% K⁻¹ and 0.86% K⁻¹, respectively. The multimodal temperature readout provided by this material enables its application in different luminescence thermometry setups as well as improved the reliability of the temperature sensing by the cross-validation between measurements.

Four completely new NIR luminescence temperature readouts in the second and third biological windows are demonstrated with YAG:Er³⁺, Yb³⁺ nanoparticles.

Mn2+/Mn4+ co-doped LaM1-xAl11-yO19 (M = Mg, Zn) luminescent materials: electronic structure, energy transfer and optical thermometric properties

Dual-emitting manganese ion doped LaM_1-xAl_11-yO₁₉ (M = Mg, Zn) phosphors were prepared by substituting Zn²⁺/Mg²⁺ with Mn²⁺ and replacing Al³⁺ with Mn⁴⁺. The LaM_1-xAl_11-yO₁₉:xMn²⁺,yMn⁴⁺ phosphors show a narrow green emission band of the Mn²⁺ ions at 514 nm and a red emission band of the Mn⁴⁺ ions at 677 nm. In addition, the thermal stability of luminescence shows that the response of Mn²⁺ and Mn⁴⁺ to the temperature is obviously different in LaMAl₁₁O₁₉, implying the potential of the prepared phosphors as optical thermometers. The decay lifetime of Mn⁴⁺ was changed with temperature due to the different fluorescence intensity ratios of Mn²⁺ and Mn⁴⁺, and a dual-mode optical temperature-sensing mechanism was studied in the temperature range of -50-200 °C. The maximum relative sensitivities (S_r) are calculated as 3.22 and 3.13% K^-1, respectively. The unique optical thermometric features demonstrate the application potential of LaMAl₁₁O₁₉:Mn²⁺,Mn⁴⁺ in optical thermometry.

Contactless Temperature Sensing at the Microscale Based on Titanium Dioxide Raman Thermometry

The determination of local temperature at the nanoscale is a key point to govern physical, chemical and biological processes, strongly influenced by temperature. Since a wide range of applications, from nanomedicine to nano- or micro-electronics, requires a precise determination of the local temperature, significant efforts have to be devoted to nanothermometry. The identification of efficient materials and the implementation of detection techniques are still a hot topic in nanothermometry. Many strategies have been already investigated and applied to real cases, but there is an urgent need to develop new protocols allowing for accurate and sensitive temperature determination. The focus of this work is the investigation of efficient optical thermometers, with potential applications in the biological field. Among the different optical techniques, Raman spectroscopy is currently emerging as a very interesting tool. Its main advantages rely on the possibility of carrying out non-destructive and non-contact measurements with high spatial resolution, reaching even the nanoscale. Temperature variations can be determined by following the changes in intensity, frequency position and width of one or more bands. Concerning the materials, Titanium dioxide has been chosen as Raman active material because of its intense cross-section and its biocompatibility, as already demonstrated in literature. Raman measurements have been performed on commercial anatase powder, with a crystallite dimension of hundreds of nm, using 488.0, 514.5, 568.2 and 647.1 nm excitation lines of the CW Ar⁺/Kr⁺ ion laser. The laser beam was focalized through a microscope on the sample, kept at defined temperature using a temperature controller, and the temperature was varied in the range of 283–323 K. The Stokes and anti-Stokes scattered light was analyzed through a triple monochromator and detected by a liquid nitrogen-cooled CCD camera. Raw data have been analyzed with Matlab, and Raman spectrum parameters—such as area, intensity, frequency position and width of the peak—have been calculated using a Lorentz fitting curve. Results obtained, calculating the anti-Stokes/Stokes area ratio, demonstrate that the Raman modes of anatase, in particular the E_g one at 143 cm⁻¹, are excellent candidates for the local temperature detection in the visible range.

Hybrid 0D Antimony Halides as Air-Stable Luminophores for High-Spatial-Resolution Remote Thermography

Luminescent organic-inorganic low-dimensional ns² metal halides are of rising interest as thermographic phosphors. The intrinsic nature of the excitonic self-trapping provides for reliable temperature sensing due to the existence of a temperature range, typically 50-100 K wide, in which the luminescence lifetimes (and quantum yields) are steeply temperature-dependent. This sensitivity range can be adjusted from cryogenic temperatures to above room temperature by structural engineering, thus enabling diverse thermometric and thermographic applications ranging from protein crystallography to diagnostics in microelectronics. Owing to the stable oxidation state of Sb³⁺ , Sb(III)-based halides are far more attractive than all major non-heavy-metal alternatives (Sn-, Ge-, Bi-based halides). In this work, the relationship between the luminescence characteristics and crystal structure and microstructure of TPP₂ SbBr₅ (TPP = tetraphenylphosphonium) is established, and then its potential is showcased as environmentally stable and robust phosphor for remote thermography. The material is easily processable into thin films, which is highly beneficial for high-spatial-resolution remote thermography. In particular, a compelling combination of high spatial resolution (1 µm) and high thermometric precision (high specific sensitivities of 0.03-0.04 K^-1 ) is demonstrated by fluorescence-lifetime imaging of a heated resistive pattern on a flat substrate, covered with a solution-spun film of TPP₂ SbBr₅ .

Luminescence Intensity Ratio Thermometry with Er3+: Performance Overview

The figures of merit of luminescence intensity ratio (LIR) thermometry for Er3+ in 40 different crystals and glasses have been calculated and compared. For calculations, the relevant data has been collected from the literature while the missing data were derived from available absorption and emission spectra. The calculated parameters include Judd–Ofelt parameters, refractive indexes, Slater integrals, spin–orbit coupling parameters, reduced matrix elements (RMEs), energy differences between emitting levels used for LIR, absolute, and relative sensitivities. We found a slight variation of RMEs between hosts because of variations in values of Slater integrals and spin–orbit coupling parameters, and we calculated their average values over 40 hosts. The calculations showed that crystals perform better than glasses in Er3+-based thermometry, and we identified hosts that have large values of both absolute and relative sensitivity.

Long-Range LMCT Coupling in EuIII Coordination Polymers for an Effective Molecular Luminescent Thermometer*

A design for an effective molecular luminescent thermometer based on long-range electronic coupling in lanthanide coordination polymers is proposed. The coordination polymers are composed of lanthanide ions Eu^III and Gd^III , three anionic ligands (hexafluoroacetylacetonate), and a chrysene-based phosphine oxide bridges (6,12-bis(diphenylphosphoryl)chrysene). The zig-zag orientation of the single polymer chains induces the formation of packed coordination structures containing multiple sites for CH-F intermolecular interactions, resulting in thermal stability above 350 °C. The electronic coupling is controlled by changing the concentration of the Gd^III ion in the Eu^III -Gd^III polymer. The emission quantum yield and the maximum relative temperature sensitivity (S_m ) of emission lifetimes for the Eu^III -Gd^III polymer (Eu:Gd=1:1, Φ_tot =52 %, S_m =3.73 % K^-1 ) were higher than those for the pure Eu^III coordination polymer (Φ_tot =36 %, S_m =2.70 % K^-1 ), respectively. Enhanced temperature sensing properties are caused by control of long-range electronic coupling based on phosphine oxide with chrysene framework.

Preparation of zero-thermal-quenching tunable emission bismuth-containing phosphors through the topochemical design of ligand configuration

We report a high performance bismuth-containing phosphor with zero-thermal-quenching, which can be used for white light illumination and non-contact temperature sensing.

Composition-Thermometric Properties Correlations in Homodinuclear Eu3+ Luminescent Complexes

A family of homodinuclear Ln³⁺ (Ln³⁺ = Gd³⁺, Eu³⁺) luminescent complexes with the general formula [Ln₂(β-diketonato)₆(N-oxide)_y] has been developed to study the effect of the β-diketonato and N-oxide ligands on their thermometric properties. The investigated complexes are [Ln₂(tta)₆(pyrzMO)₂] (Ln = Eu (1·C₇H₈), Gd (5)), [Ln₂(dbm)₆(pyrzMO)₂] (Ln = Eu (2), Gd (6)), [Ln₂(bta)₆(pyrzMO)₂] (Ln = Eu (3), Gd (7)), [Ln₂(hfac)₆(pyrzMO)₃] (Ln = Eu (4), Gd (8)) (pyrzMO = pyrazine N-oxide, Htta = thenoyltrifluoroacetone, Hdbm = dibenzoylmethane, Hbta = benzoyltrifluoroacetone, Hhfac = hexafluoroacetylacetone, C₇H₈ = toluene), and their 4,4′-bipyridine N-oxide (bipyMO) analogues. Europium complexes emit a bright red light under UV radiation at room temperature, whose intensity displays a strong temperature (T) dependence between 223 and 373 K. This remarkable variation is exploited to develop a series of luminescent thermometers by using the integrated intensity of the ⁵D₀ → ⁷F₂ europium transition as the thermometric parameter (Δ). The effect of different β-diketonato and N-oxide ligands is investigated with particular regard to the shape of thermometer calibration (Δ vs T) and relative thermal sensitivity curves: i.e.. the change in Δ per degree of temperature variation usually indicated as S_r (% K^–1). The thermometric properties are determined by the presence of two nonradiative deactivation channels, back energy transfer (BEnT) from Eu³⁺ to the ligand triplet levels and ligand to metal charge transfer (LMCT). In the complexes bearing tta and dbm ligands, whose triplet energy is ca. 20000 cm^–1, both deactivation channels are active in the same temperature range, and both contribute to determine the thermometric properties. Conversely, with bta and hfac ligands the response of the europium luminescence to temperature variation is ruled by LMCT channels since the high triplet energy (>21400 cm^–1) makes BEnT ineffective in the investigated temperature range.

A family of homodinuclear Eu³⁺ luminescent complexes with the general formula [Ln₂(β-diketonato)₆(N-oxide)_y] (y = 2, 3) was developed to study the effect of the β-diketonato and N-oxide ligands on the thermometric properties of the complexes. In this way, an effective tuning of the system’s thermometric properties can be achieved.

Cr3+ based nanocrystalline luminescent thermometers operating in a temporal domain

Cr3+ doped nanocrystals were examined as a noncontact temperature sensor in a lifetime-based approach. The impact of both the analysis protocols and host materials on the lifetime-based approach was systematically investigated. Temperature-dependent luminescence decay curves were analyzed according to three different procedures (average lifetime approach, double exponential fit and time-gated ratiometric approach). The advantages and drawbacks of each method are discussed. Additionally, the thermal sensitivities derived from the average lifetime approach and the double exponential fit revealed a strong dependence of the thermal sensitivity of the Cr3+ doped nanocrystals on the crystal field strength. In these cases, it was found that the long metal-oxygen distances in the host materials improve the thermal sensitivity of the system. This work reveals the importance of both host materials and analysis procedures in the lifetime thermal sensitivity of Cr3+ doped nanocrystals and opens up an avenue towards their future optimization.

Enhancing FRET biosensing beyond 10 nm with photon avalanche nanoparticles

Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between donor (D) and acceptor (A) molecules is a phenomenon commonly exploited to study or visualize biological interactions at the molecular level. However, commonly used organic D and A molecules often suffer from photobleaching and spectral bleed-through, and their spectral properties hinder quantitative analysis. Lanthanide-doped upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs) as alternative D species offer significant improvements in terms of photostability, spectral purity and background-free luminescence detection, but they bring new challenges related to multiple donor ions existing in a single large size UCNP and the need for nanoparticle biofunctionalization. Considering the relatively short Förster distance (typically below 5-7 nm), it becomes a non-trivial task to assure sufficiently strong D-A interaction, which translates directly to the sensitivity of such bio-sensors. In this work we propose a solution to these issues, which employs the photon avalanche (PA) phenomenon in lanthanide-doped materials. Using theoretical modelling, we predict that these PA systems would be highly susceptible to the presence of A and that the estimated sensitivity range extends to distances 2 to 4 times longer (i.e. 10-25 nm) than those typically found in conventional FRET systems. This promises high sensitivity, low background and spectral or temporal biosensing, and provides the basis for a radically novel approach to combine luminescence imaging and self-normalized bio-molecular interaction sensing.

Pushing the Limit of Boltzmann Distribution in Cr3+-Doped CaHfO3 for Cryogenic Thermometry

Luminescence Boltzmann thermometry is one of the most reliable techniques used to locally probe temperature in a contactless mode. However, to date, there is no report on cryogenic thermometers based on the highly sensitive and reliable Boltzmann-based ⁴T₂ → ⁴A₂/²E → ⁴A₂ emission ratio of Cr³⁺. On the basis of structural information of the local HfO₆ octahedral site we demonstrated the potential of the CaHfO₃:Cr³⁺ system by combining deep theoretical and experimental investigation. The material exhibits simultaneous emission from both the ²E and ⁴T₂ excited states, following the Boltzmann law in a cryogenic temperature range of 40-150 K. The promising thermometric performance corroborates the potential of CaHfO₃:Cr³⁺ as a Boltzmann cryothermometer, being characterized by a high relative sensitivity (∼ 2%·K^-1 at 40 K) and exceptional thermal resolution (0.045-0.77 K in the 40-150 K range). Moreover, by exploiting the flexibility of the ⁴T₂-²E energy gap controlled by the crystal field of the local octahedral site, the design proposed herein could be expanded to develop new Cr³⁺-doped cryogenic thermometers.