Identification of <mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" display="inline"><mml:mrow><mml:msup><mml:mrow><mml:mi>Dy</mml:mi></mml:mrow><mml:mrow><mml:mn>3</mml:mn><mml:mo>+</mml:mo></mml:mrow></mml:msup><mml:mo>/</mml:mo><mml:msup><mml:mrow><mml:mi>Dy</mml:mi></mml:mrow><mml:mrow><mml:mn>2</mml:mn><mml:mo>+</mml:mo></mml:mrow></mml:msup></mml:mrow></mml:math> as Electron Trap in Persistent Phosphors

Abstract

Laser excitation and x-ray spectroscopy are combined to settle a long-standing question in persistent luminescence. A reversible electron transfer is demonstrated, controlled by light and showing the same kinetics as the persistent luminescence. Exposure to violet light induces charging by oxidation of the excited Eu^{2+} while Dy^{3+} is simultaneously reduced. Oppositely, detrapping of Dy^{2+} occurs at ambient temperature or by infrared illumination, yielding afterglow or optically stimulated luminescence, respectively.

Topics & Concepts