Luminescence: The Basics, Methods, and Instrumentation

The phenomenon of luminescence and its underlying physics are outlined. Because the end result of the luminescence process is the emission of light, this chapter starts with a brief explanation of the electromagnetic spectrum and the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter. An explanation is given of how different types of luminescence are categorized according to the nature of excitation of electronic state. Emphasis is given to photoluminescence along with an explanation of its main physical processes. The majority of luminescence temperature probes are made from solid materials, thus, luminescence in solids, both intrinsic and extrinsic types, is elaborated upon. The chapter then goes on to consider the mechanisms responsible for temperature quenching of luminescence. These changes may be observed with different types of steady-state and time-resolved luminescence measurements. Thus, the principles of luminescence measurement methods are given before the chapter concludes with an overview of the instrumentation commonly used for luminescence measurements.