Abstract
La(OH)(3) nanorods with different aspect ratios have been successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method without using any surfactant, catalyst, or template. The amount of the alkali source in the initial solution and reaction time play a key role in controlling the morphology and particle size of the La(OH)(3) products. Subsequently, the as-obtained La(OH)(3) samples are used as precursor to fabricate the La2O3 nanorods after an annealing process. The lanthanide ions Ln(3+) (Ln = Er, Tb, Eu) doped La2O3 samples exhibit characteristic emissions corresponding to the electronic transitions of the Ln(3+) ions. Moreover, the morphologies and sizes of the luminescent materials have a great influence on their luminescence properties. Based on the unique luminescent properties and controllable morphology and size, these luminescent materials may find potential applications in fields such as lighting, optical displays, and optoelectronic devices.