First Observation of Quantum Splitting Behavior in Nanocrystalline SrAl12O19:Pr, Mg Phosphor

We report on the first observation of quantum splitting effect in nanocrystalline powders of SrAl12O19:1% Pr, Mg. The nanocrystalline materials were prepared using a surfactant-templated-assisted route yielding high-quality hexagonal nanocrystallites with thicknesses comprised between 30 and 60 nm. Comprehensive optical studies, including emission, photoexcitation, and time-resolved fluorescence measurements, demonstrate that no physical property degradation such as surface-induced loss mechanisms are found and that the quantum splitting properties of the material are fully retained in the nanocrystalline particles.