Ba2GdF7 Nanocrystals: Solution-Based Synthesis, Growth Mechanism, and Luminescence Properties

Pseudo-octahedrons of Ba 2 GdF 7 were successfully synthesized through a solution-based method in a hydrothermal environment for the first time. The preferential adsorption of ethylene glycol (EG) molecules on the {111} planes contributed to the formation of the octahedral shape. Hydrazine was employed as the alkaline source to adjust the adsorption affinity of EG and the hydrolysis rate of NaBF 4 (fluorine supply), thereby controlling the morphology and phase structure. A series of contrast experiments were conducted to investigate the growth mechanism of the Ba 2 GdF 7 nanocrystals. As a proof-of-concept experiment, Eu 3+, Tb 3+, Dy 3+, and Yb 3+ /Er 3+ ions were doped to demonstrate the potential of the Ba 2 GdF 7 crystals as host material for phosphors.