Synthesis, luminescence, and biocompatibility of calcium- and lanthanide-containing NaZr2(PO4)3-type compounds

Ca0.5Zr2(PO4)3:Er/Yb and Ca0.75Zr2(PO4)2.5(SiO4)0.5:Er/Yb compounds have been prepared and their luminescence properties and biocompatibility have been investigated. We found synthesis conditions that ensured phase homogeneity and formation of nanopowders. Their luminescence properties have been studied. Under IR excitation, emission was observed at λ = 0.525 μm. Cells (neutrophil granulocytes) were shown to retain viability in the presence of the compounds studied.