Preparation and characterization of transparent Eu doped Y2O3 aerogel monoliths, for application in luminescence

This paper focuses on a new sol–gel preparation method of Eu doped Y2O3 aerogels, for application in luminescence and their characterization. The preparation method is based on a sol–gel technique using metal salts, by controlling the hydrolysis of these precursors with an epoxide. The monoliths prepared in this manner are transparent in the visible radiation domain. They have a mesoporous texture, a specific surface area of ≈350 to 400 m2 g−1 and they are X-ray amorphous. The gel network could be clearly observed by Transmission Electron Microscopy and showed the presence of localized poorly crystalline nanodomains, with some Eu segregation. A first evaluation of the luminescence which they develop during crystallization, has been carried out as a function of the heat treatment schedule.