Preparation and photoluminescence properties of Sm³⁺-doped ZrO₂nanotube arrays

Zr–Sm (3 at.% Sm) alloy was prepared through a powder metallurgical method. Sm 3+ -doped ZrO 2 nanotube arrays have been achieved directly by anodizing the Zr–Sm alloy. The effects of electrolyte and annealing temperature on the morphologies and structures of the nanotube arrays were studied. The photoluminescence properties of Sm 3+ -doped ZrO 2 nanotube arrays prepared in aqueous solution and formamide + glycerol solution were studied in detail as well. Results show that tetragonal ZrO 2 promoted the photoluminescence efficiency of this system. Under excitation at 407 nm, the sample prepared in aqueous solution annealed at 600 °C displayed the strongest emission peak at 571 nm, corresponding to the 4 G 5/2 → 6 H 5/2 samarium transition.