Plasmon-enhanced broad-band quantum-cutting of NaBaPO4:Eu2+,Er3+ phosphors with silver nano-particles

Abstract NaBaPO4:Eu2+, Er3+ phosphors and Ag nano-particles (NPs) were prepared by the solid-state reaction and chemical reduction method, respectively. The fluorescence spectra and decay curves demonstrate the effective energy transfer from Eu2+ to Er3+ and the existence of three-photon quantum-cutting through two-step cross-relaxation of Er3+. The quantum-cutting emission is peaked at 1534 nm with a broad excitation band centered at 352 nm. Plasmon-enhanced quantum-cutting of NaBaPO4:Eu2+, Er3+ phosphors was realized by decorating Ag NPs. The largest enhancement factor is 1.395. It is hopeful to improve the photovoltaic conversion efficiency of Ge solar cells by using this phosphor.