Optical properties of composites based on polyethylene and monoclinic Y2O3:Eu3+ nanoparticles

m-Y2O3:Eu3+ composites (PECs) containing 0.32, 0.77, and 1.79 wt% of well-dispersed sphere-like m-Y2O3:Eu3+ nanoparticles were obtained by in situ polymerization in the presence of a titanium-magnesium catalyst (TMC). TMC was synthesized by sequential deposition of organic magnesium and TiCl4 on m-Y2O3:Eu3+ that had been previously dehydroxylated at 650 °C. Detailed photoluminescence properties of the obtained composites as a function of m-Y2O3:Eu3+ content were investigated in combination with UV–Vis and IR spectroscopy data. It was shown that Eu3+ ions in monoclinic Y2O3 lattice are responsible for the high red emission of the composites. The effect of the РЕС host on the luminescence properties of m-Y2O3:Eu3+ was revealed. The obtained chromaticity coordinates with improved red color (0.653, 0.347) and high absolute luminescence quantum yield up to 23% make РЕСs potential promising materials for luminescent applications. [Display omitted] •Polyethylene - m-Y2O3:Eu3+ nanocomposites with red emission are obtained.•Detailed photoluminescence properties as a function of m-Y2O3:Eu3+ is reported.•Eu3+ ions in m-Y2O3 are responsible for the high red emission of the composites.•Effect of the РЕ host on the PL properties of m-Y2O3:Eu3+ was revealed.•CIE coordinates and high QY are suitable for PL applications.