Abstract:

A one-step template-free process for the fabrication of pure, doped, and codoped single-crystal MgBO₂(OH) nanobelts in high yield has been presented. The growth mechanism of such novel nanobelts has been investigated on the basis of time-dependent experiments and the crystal structure of szaibelyite MgBO₂(OH). Upon excitation with 260 nm ultraviolet light, Eu³⁺-doped nanobelts show a dominant red emission (615 nm) that is visible to the naked eye, indicating that MgBO₂(OH) is a new promising host material for the luminescence of rare-earth ions. With the introduction of Y³⁺ codopant, the emission intensities of all the peaks are efficiently enhanced and the intensity ratio (R) of 593 to 615 nm emissions increases. The reason for the spectral change relating to Y³⁺ modification is also discussed. The obtained red-emitting nanobelts which can be easily made into transparent thin film have great potential in a wide variety of applications such as transparent luminescent layers. The approach presented herein is expected to provide access to additional multicomponent functional nanobelts with or without dopants.