Synthesis of cerium-doped LaF₃ nanoparticle scintillator without surface modification and heat treatments

Abstract In this study, LaF 3 nanoparticles doped with varying concentrations of Ce³⁺ ions (0-25 mol%) were synthesized via a wet chemical precipitation method without surface modification and heat treatments. The structural, morphological, compositional, and optical properties of the samples were comprehensively investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. XRD and TEM analyses confirmed the preservation of the hexagonal LaF 3 crystal structure with high crystallinity and nanoscale particle sizes (16-19 nm). EDX and FTIR results indicated high chemical purity and successful incorporation of Ce³⁺ ions without introducing new surface functionalities. Optical measurements revealed enhanced luminescence at ~308 nm due to the Ce³⁺ 5d→4f transition, with optimal emission intensity observed at Ce³⁺ concentrations between 10-15 mol%. These findings establish that, even without surface modification and heat treatment, high-quality cerium-doped LaF₃ nanoparticle scintillator crystals can be obtained. These crystals are expected to be suitable for various applications, such as efficient UV phosphors with potential utility in UV scintillation.