Modified Pechini method by PVP addition for Nd:Gd2O3 nanophosphors fabrication

Abstract Gadolinium oxide nanopowders doped with neodymium were prepared via modified Pechini method based on double stabilization of nanoparticles. Polyvinylpyrrolidone was used as an additional stabilizer at low-temperature stage of synthesis. This polymer also acts as a fuel during thermal treatment of precursors. Photoluminescence and FTIR spectroscopy, DTA/TG, XRD and SEM analysis were used for the analysis of thermal evolution of initial materials, chemical intermediates and final products at different stages of thermal treatment. Photoluminescence characterization included measurements of excitation and emission spectra of synthesized powders at different stages of thermal treatment.