Boosting green emission in Mn(ii)-doped Cs3ZnCl5 by introducing an energy transfer mediator

In this research, we present an innovative, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alcohothermal method for synthesizing Mn2+ and Mn2+–Cu+ doped 0D Cs3ZnCl5, a green luminescent material, marking the first time this approach has been reported. An exhaustive analysis of the luminescence properties of both undoped and doped Cs3ZnCl5 was conducted, with a particular emphasis on the energy transfer mechanisms in the Mn2+ mono-doped and Mn2+–Cu+ co-doped systems. The results demonstrate the successful construction of an efficient energy transfer pathway that significantly enhances the luminescence efficiency of Cs3ZnCl5:Mn2+. Specifically, the photoluminescence quantum yield of Mn2+ within the Cs3ZnCl5 matrix has been improved from 51.6% to 71.1%, thanks to the Cu+ codopant acting as an effective energy transfer mediator. A mechanism for the luminescence and energy transfer phenomena observed in the Mn2+–Cu+ co-doped Cs3ZnCl5 system has been also proposed. Furthermore, to assess the practical applicability of the synthesized materials, their structural and photoluminescent stability were evaluated. In essence, our study presents a promising solution to current challenges in the synthesis of advanced luminescent materials and opens up new possibilities for harnessing the potential of Mn2+-activated 0D metal halides in optoelectronic applications.