Structure and spectroscopy characterization of La1-xSmxVO4 luminescent nanoparticles synthesized co-precipitation and sol-gel methods

The Sm-activated orthvanadate nanoparticles with La1-xSmxVO4 (x ≤ 0.3) composition were synthesized by co-precipitation and sol-gel methods. XRD study has shown that synthesized samples are characterized by monoclinic or tetragonal structure as well as their mixture dependently on Sm concentration and methods of synthesis. Influence of method of synthesis on morphology of nanoparticles, their absorption, diffuse reflectance and emission spectra was observed and studied. Luminescence properties and diffuse reflectance spectra of the sol-gel nanoparticles are also depend on Sm concentrations. At least two types of Sm3+ centers were found by emission spectra. These centers have different excitation efficiency by light from the 350–450 nm spectral range. Structures of the centers are discussed taking into account crystal structure, possible defects, morphology of the synthesized nanoparticles and their phase compositions. •La1-xSmxVO4 nanoparticles synthesized by co-precipitation and sol-gel methods.•Phase compositions of the samples depend on method of synthesis and Sm concentration.•Morphology and optical properties depend on phase compositions.•Two types of luminescence centers are connected with tetragonal or monoclinic phases.