Reaching quantum yields ≫100% in nanomaterials

For the first time, it has been realized that trigonal GdF3:Eu, which is usually only accessible at high temperatures and very high pressures, has a superior capability as a host material for quantum-cutting materials compared to orthorhombic phase GdF3:Eu. Synthesis of these materials from ionic liquids does not only allow us to obtain oxygen-free, nanoscale fluorides – a prerequisite for fluoride quantum cutters, but by changing the ionic liquid it becomes also possible to tune the phase of the nanoparticles and thus, most importantly, the quantum cutting efficiency of the final material.