Abstract
Sodium zinc phosphate glasses containing silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), Eu3+ and Dy3+ ions, have been prepared using the melt-quenching method. The structure, luminescence and spectroscopic properties were evaluated through experimental and theoretical studies. The results indicate that a dual mode energy transfer from Ag NPs and Dy3+ ions to Eu3+ ions leads to the enhancement of the emission bands related to Eu3+ ions in addition to the local field effect of the silver NPs. Moreover, the excited Dy3+ ions exchange energy with Eu3+ in the presence of Ag NPs and Ag nanoclusters (Ag NCs) produces white color with varying tints. The present systematic study provides useful information for the development of light emitting diodes (LEDs) devices.
•Eu3+/Dy3+/Ag NPs tri-doped phosphate glasses have been prepared using the melt-quenching method.•The improvement of Eu3+emission is attributed to efficient energy transfer from both Ag NPs and Dy3+ ions.•The generation of white color with varying tint is originated from the presence of Ag NPs and Ag nanoclusters (Ag NCs).•The prepared glasses are useful for the development of light emitting diodes (LEDs) devices.