Controllable synthesis and luminescence properties of one-dimensional La2O3 and La2O3:Ln3+ (Ln = Er, Eu, Tb) nanorods with different aspect ratios

La(OH)3 nanorods with different aspect ratios have been successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method without using any surfactant, catalyst, or template. The amount of the alkali source in the initial solution and reaction time play a key role in controlling the morphology and particle size of the La(OH)3 products. Subsequently, the as-obtained La(OH)3 samples are used as precursor to fabricate the La2O3 nanorods after an annealing process. The lanthanide ions Ln3+ (Ln = Er, Tb, Eu) doped La2O3 samples exhibit characteristic emissions corresponding to the electronic transitions of the Ln3+ ions. Moreover, the morphologies and sizes of the luminescent materials have a great influence on their luminescence properties. Based on the unique luminescent properties and controllable morphology and size, these luminescent materials may find potential applications in fields such as lighting, optical displays, and optoelectronic devices. •La(OH)3 nanorods with different aspect ratios were prepared by a hydrothermal method.•La(OH)3 can be converted to La2O3 nanorods after an annealing process.•The Ln3+ doped samples exhibit intense characteristic DC or UC multicolor emissions.•The morphologies and sizes have a great influence on the luminescence properties.•The luminescent materials may be potentially applied in lighting and displays.