Structure evolution and photoluminescence properties of ZrO2:Eu3+ nanocrystals

Abstract ZrO 2 nanocrystals were synthesized by combustion process at a relatively low temperature. Upon introducing calcium ions into the host, the monoclinic to tetragonal and cubic transformation of ZrO 2 were observed. To further probe the structural evolution of ZrO 2 nanocrystals, the optical properties of Eu 3+ in the ZrO 2 nanocrystals were investigated.