Characterization of Electronic Energy Transfer in Layered Inorganic Solids

The purpose of this project is to examine energy transfer between [Ag_1-xAu_x(CN)_2]- donors and Eu3+ acceptors. After studying the energy levels of the [Ag_1-xAu_x(CN)_2]- donors, single crystals are doped with varying concentrations of Europium to examine energy transfer. Energy transfer is studied using a combination of steady-state excitation and emission spectroscopy, lifetime measurements and time-resolved spectroscopy. These measurements are made as a function of temperature between 77 K and room Temperature. Results show strong luminescence at all temperatures in contrast with prior results showing poor luminescence at room temperature in pure silver or gold crystals, and energy transfer from the gold and silver dicyanide donors to the Europium acceptor.